“A woman’s fertility undergoes significant changes over the course of her life, with age playing a key role in the chances of conception. Understanding these changes is essential for those planning their families or considering fertility preservation.
Fertility naturally declines with age. In your 20s, chances of conception are high, but by your 30s, there’s a gradual decline in egg quality and quantity, explains Dr. Sonali Mandal Bandyopadhyay, IVF Specialist at Birla Fertility and IVF Howrah. “”In your 40s, the chances of natural conception significantly drop, and miscarriage rates rise. I encourage women to be proactive about fertility discussions and options, especially as they age.
In a woman’s 20s, her egg reserve is at its peak, and the chances of conceiving naturally are the highest. This is the ideal time biologically for pregnancy, as both egg quality and quantity are optimal. However, as women enter their 30s, fertility begins to gradually decline. By the age of 35, there is a noticeable reduction in the number of viable eggs, and the chances of pregnancy start to decrease more significantly.
By the time a woman reaches her 40s, the decline in fertility becomes steeper. Not only does the number of eggs drastically reduce, but the remaining eggs are also more likely to have chromosomal abnormalities, which increase the risk of miscarriage. While natural conception is still possible, many women in their 40s turn to fertility treatments like IVF to improve their chances of having a child.
Early family planning discussions and exploring options like egg freezing can empower women to take control of their reproductive futures. Fertility specialists can guide women through the changes that come with age and offer solutions to help achieve their family goals, even later in life.”
