In this article 5 sections
Age is one of the factors that influences fertility, but it cannot predict an individual's future by itself. People of the same age can have different medical histories, ovarian reserves and pregnancy experiences. Understanding the general changes can help with planning without treating a birthday as a sudden deadline.
For women, both the number of remaining eggs and their likelihood of developing into a healthy pregnancy change over time. For men, age may also affect aspects of fertility and reproductive risk, although the pattern is different. A couple's assessment therefore considers both partners rather than age in isolation.
What changes through the 20s and 30s
Fertility is generally higher in the 20s and begins to decline as women grow older. The decline becomes more marked through the later 30s, but it is gradual rather than a switch that turns at 35. A regular period indicates a cycle is continuing; it does not show the chromosome status of the egg released.
People may delay pregnancy for personal, health or practical reasons, and this information should support decisions rather than create blame. If you are unsure about timing, a consultation can explore your history and the options available. No test can tell you exactly how long you can safely postpone trying.
Trying for pregnancy in your 40s
Pregnancy remains possible for some women in their 40s, but conception generally becomes less likely and miscarriage becomes more common. Age can also affect the medical risks of pregnancy itself. These are reasons for timely, individual advice rather than assumptions about what is or is not possible for you.
IVF using your own eggs is also affected by egg age. Treatment can help with fertilisation and other barriers, but it cannot remove every age-related limitation. When a clinic quotes success rates, ask whether they apply to your age and whether they involve patients using their own eggs or donor eggs.
What ovarian-reserve tests can add
AMH and an ultrasound antral follicle count help estimate how the ovaries may respond to stimulation. They are useful for certain treatment decisions, but neither directly measures egg quality. A younger woman with low AMH and an older woman with a higher result should not assume their chances can be compared using that number alone.
These tests also do not reliably predict the month or year when natural conception will no longer be possible. Interpret them with a doctor who understands the reason they were requested. Testing should clarify a decision, not leave you managing a frightening number without context.
Where egg freezing fits
Egg freezing stores eggs for possible future use and may preserve an option that would otherwise become more limited. Its potential benefit depends strongly on age at freezing, the number of mature eggs stored and what happens when they are used. It is not a guarantee of a baby or an insurance policy against every effect of age.
Later pregnancy still involves the health considerations of the person carrying it. A consultation should cover expected egg numbers, treatment risks, storage arrangements and future IVF costs. It should also make clear that some people never use their stored eggs.
When to seek advice
If you are under 35, assessment is usually advised after a year of regular unprotected sex without pregnancy. From 35, the usual timeframe is six months; around 40 or above, discussing plans promptly is sensible. Irregular periods, a known fertility condition or previous treatment can justify earlier advice at any age.
Your next step should consider your goals and circumstances as well as statistics. Bring any earlier results and ask what waiting, testing or treatment would change. A realistic plan should explain the uncertainty without promising success or pressuring you into an immediate decision.