How does age affect Women's fertility? Experts Insights
As per WHO, a large number of people all over the world are affected by infertility in their lifetime. Approximately 17.5 percent of the adult population, which means 1 out of 6 people experience infertility and related issues and seek fertility care. Globally, 60 out of 80 million couples suffer from fertility issues every year in the world, of which 15 and 20 million are in India alone.? Age is one of the major factors that affect fertility. According to the CDC, half of the women all over the world suffer from fertility issues in their 40s.
The desire to build a family is deeply personal, and fertility plays a crucial role in achieving the dream of becoming a parent. But for many women, a question often arises: "What is the fertility window" for women? Let's understand the science behind age and its impact on fertility from the experts in the field. Understand how age affects a woman's reproductive system, analyze statistics to understand general trends, and navigate fertility journeys.?
How does age decline women’s fertility?
Many people have babies at a later age due to various reasons. However, it is a fact that the fertility rate declines by the mid-30s, and this decline increases with age. This is a fact that the risk factors and complications increase as women age. Here's why, according to experts:
Egg quality and quantity
Women are born with an infinite number of eggs. As they age, the number of eggs naturally declines, especially after 35. Experts say this decline is gradual until then but accelerates rapidly afterward.
Even if eggs are available, their quality declines with age. The cytoplasm, which nourishes the developing embryo, becomes less efficient. The egg's outer shell may also harden, making it harder for sperm to penetrate.
Chromosome issue
Older eggs have more chances to have chromosomal abnormalities, increasing the risk of miscarriage and congenital disabilities.?
Overall health
Age can affect hormone production and ovulation, and uterine lining development, which is crucial for conception and implantation. In addition, fertility depends on overall health. Age-related health issues can further decrease pregnancy chances.?
Female Fertility by age: How pregnancy changes with age
In their 20s, women have a 25-30% chance of conceiving monthly. By 40, that chance drops to around 5%. Miscarriage rates also rise with age, from 10% in women under 30 to over 50% in women over 45.?
As per experts, the data shows that women get pregnant within one year of having regular or unprotected sex.
Fertility in 20s
This is the perfect age for women to have a healthy pregnancy. This is the age when women are most fertile. Women in their 20s have the highest chance of conceiving naturally due to more nutritious eggs and efficient ovulation cycles. As per the statistics, there is a 25-30% chance of conception each month. In addition, there are many advantages and disadvantages of conceiving in the 20s -
Advantages
Disadvantages
Fertility in 30s
The 30s is the age to focus on both career and family. If a woman wants to conceive at this age, her chances decrease by 15 to 20 percent. Moreover, after age 35, the chances of conceiving naturally decrease due to a decline in egg quantity and quality. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of conceiving after 30s-
Advantages
Disadvantages
Fertility in 40s and beyond
As per the CDC, women across the globe aged above 40 face fertility issues. The fertility rates naturally decline sharply after 35, and this decline accelerates after 40. Per the stats, the chances of conceiving naturally decrease by 5% every month in your 40s. Moreover, the chances of miscarriage rise with age due to the higher chance of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs. Other health issues like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preeclampsia become more prevalent and increase the risk of pregnancy complications. Experts suggest that women who want to conceive successfully after their 40s may require fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF).?
Age Affects Male and Female Fertility.
Both men and women make decisions about conceiving. While both parents are involved in the complete journey of getting pregnant, there are still misconceptions that only women are responsible for infertility-related issues. As per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), more than 15% of married couples in India experience infertility issues. Out of which, about one-third are due to male infertility issues. This is because women have a much shorter peak fertility window than men. The primary impact on female fertility is egg quantity and quality, while for men, it's sperm quality. Furthermore, age affects fertility differently in women compared to men. Here's a breakdown:
Women?
Men?
Age is a Factor: Conception is Still possible later in life
No one can deny that age influences fertility, but there are some tips to optimize your chances of conceiving later in life. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by following the tips below
Age is a significant factor in conceiving, but conception is still possible for women and men at older ages. Healthy pregnancies and births occur for women in their 40s and beyond. With the advancements in ARTs like IVF and Cryopreservation, the success rates of matured pregnancies have significantly increased.?
You can consult with expert professionals at Crysta IVF and get personalized advice on the risks, factors, and benefits before making any decisions about family planning.?