How does age affect female fertility?
Age has a significant impact on female fertility. As women age, their fertility gradually declines due to various biological and physiological changes that occur in the reproductive system. Here’s how age affects female fertility:
Decreased Ovarian Reserve. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and as they age, the quantity and quality of their remaining eggs diminish. This decline in egg quantity and quality is known as diminished ovarian reserve. As a result, it becomes more challenging to conceive, and the risk of infertility increases with age.
Reduced Egg Quality. With advancing age, the genetic quality of eggs can decline. This increases the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, as well as higher rates of miscarriage. Older eggs may have difficulty properly fertilizing and developing into healthy embryos.
Irregular Ovulation. As women age, ovulation may become less regular or even cease altogether. Irregular ovulation can make it more difficult to accurately time intercourse for conception. In some cases, ovulation may not occur at all, leading to anovulation or an absence of egg release.
Increased Risk of Medical Conditions. As women age, they become more prone to certain medical conditions that can impact fertility. These include conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, fibroids, and other hormonal or structural abnormalities that can affect fertility.
Higher Risk of Pregnancy Complications. Advanced maternal age is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure (preeclampsia), preterm birth, and cesarean delivery. The risk of chromosomal abnormalities in offspring, such as Down syndrome, also rises with maternal age.
Diminished Response to Fertility Treatments. As women get older, their response to fertility treatments, such as assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like in vitro fertilization (IVF), may be reduced. This is due to factors such as lower ovarian reserve and decreased egg quality.
Fertility decline varies among individuals, and some women may experience more significant effects at an earlier age, while others may retain higher fertility for longer. However, in general, it is widely recognized that female fertility gradually declines starting in the late 20s, with a more significant decline occurring after the age of 35.
Understanding the impact of age on fertility is essential for individuals and couples who are planning to conceive and may help inform decisions regarding family planning and fertility treatments.
