Age is one of the most important factors influencing fertility. Whether you’re just starting to think about having a family or you’ve been trying to conceive for a while, knowing how age affects fertility can empower you to make informed decisions about your reproductive health.
Understanding Fertility and Age
From your teenage years through your 20s and 30s, your fertility is generally at its peak. However, starting in your early 30s, and more significantly after age 35, fertility begins to change. This change continues as you approach your 40s and beyond. Women often ask us at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group (PREG) about the best age to get pregnant and how age impacts their chances of conceiving. It’s important to know that while many women have healthy pregnancies in their late 30s and 40s, the biological realities of fertility mean that age-related changes can affect conception and pregnancy outcomes.
Why Does Fertility Change with Age?
The primary reason fertility changes with age is the decrease in both the quantity and quality of a woman’s eggs. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and as they age, the number of viable eggs decreases. At Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group (PREG), we discuss with patients how this decrease in egg quantity and egg quality can impact fertility treatments, like IVF. For example, IVF success rates may be higher for women under 35 and gradually decrease as age increases.
Fertility Rates by Age: What the Numbers Tell Us
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a general overview of fertility rates by age:
- For women in their late teens to late 20s, fertility rates are 20-25% each month
- By age 35, a woman’s chances of pregnancy are reduced to about 15% each month
- By age 40, the likelihood of achieving a pregnancy is only 5-10% each month
- By age 43, the likelihood of pregnancy is less than 5% each month
At Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group (PREG), we offer personalized fertility treatments designed specifically for your age and unique fertility needs, aiming to maximize your chances of success. More and more women are choosing to start families after age 35, often referred to as “advanced maternal age”, for a variety of personal and professional reasons. With expert support and advanced reproductive technology, most women over 35 can look forward to safe and successful pregnancies.
Can Older Women Get Pregnant?
Older women can get pregnant and experience the joy of motherhood. While fertility naturally changes with age, reproductive technology has made pregnancy possible for many women in their late 30s, 40s, and sometimes even beyond. With access to quality prenatal care, healthy lifestyle choices, and modern fertility treatments, pregnancy at an older age can be a positive and rewarding journey. Each woman’s experience is unique, and with hope and the right resources, motherhood remains an achievable dream for women at many stages of life.
What About Men? The Impact of Paternal Age
While the age of the father may not be as widely discussed as maternal age, it does play a meaningful role in pregnancy and the health of the child. As men grow older, there are changes in sperm quality, which can impact fertility. With advances in fertility treatments and a better understanding of reproductive health, many older fathers go on to have healthy pregnancies and healthy children — highlighting that, while age may introduce some additional considerations, it does not preclude positive outcomes.
Personalized Fertility Care at PREG
Every woman’s fertility journey is special. At PREG, we pride ourselves on a patient-centered approach that meets you where you are, regardless of your age. Whether you’re exploring your fertility for the first time or seeking advanced treatments, our team is here to support you with the highest level of individualized care. We have six convenient locations throughout South Carolina and North Carolina, including Greenville, Columbia, Summerville, Mount Pleasant, Spartanburg, and Asheville.
Ready to Learn More about Age and Fertility?
If you’re curious about how age affects fertility or want to explore your parenthood options, PREG is here to help. Our experienced team of doctors, nurses, and fertility specialists is dedicated to educating, encouraging, and empowering you on your fertility journey. It takes just one call at (864) 232-7734 to book your consultation with PREG.
