“Understanding fertility in relation to age is crucial for individuals planning to start a family. Fertility naturally declines with age, which is particularly significant for women.
“”Fertility naturally declines with age, making it essential for individuals to understand the facts about the biological clock. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and both egg quality and quantity decrease as they age, particularly after 35. This decline affects the chances of conception and increases the risk of miscarriage or chromosomal abnormalities. Men also experience age-related fertility issues, such as reduced sperm quality. A simple blood test, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), can help assess a woman’s ovarian reserve, providing a clearer understanding of her biological clock. While advances in fertility treatments can help, early planning and awareness of the biological clock allow individuals to make informed decisions about family planning and optimize their chances of successful conception.”” explains Dr. Manjunath CS, an IVF specialist at Birla Fertility and IVF, Bangalore.
The statistics are compelling. According to various studies, a woman’s chances of conceiving naturally drop significantly after 30, with the likelihood of conception in any given month falling from about 20% at age 30 to less than 5% by age 40. Additionally, the risk of complications during pregnancy rises with maternal age, making it essential for women to be aware of their biological clock.
Men, too, face age-related fertility challenges. Research indicates that sperm quality can deteriorate as men age, resulting in lower sperm motility and increased DNA fragmentation. While men can remain fertile into their later years, the age of the male partner can still impact fertility and the health of the offspring.
With growing awareness around fertility and age, individuals are encouraged to seek information and consider their reproductive health proactively, making informed decisions that align with their family planning goals. Understanding the biological clock is key to enhancing fertility potential and achieving successful conception.”
