How a Woman’s Age Affects her Fertility

A woman’s age is broadly related to her fertility. Know how female fertility is affected by age as well as the pros and cons of women getting pregnant in their 20s, 30s and 40s.

Age & Female Fertility

Age and fertility in women are connected. As your biological clock keeps ticking, getting pregnant is no longer as easy as it was in your 20s. It can be difficult to conceive as you grow older, though it’s not impossible. Women can have successful pregnancies even after the age of 35. If you wish to have more than two children, it is recommended that you start planning early on. Let’s look at the pros and cons of getting pregnant during the three important decades of a woman’s life.

Fertility in your 20’s

Pros of getting pregnant in your 20’s

• According to experts, this is the best time to conceive as you are in your biological prime. The age of 24 is suggested to be the peak of fertility in a woman.
• Eggs of women in their 20s are less susceptible to genetic abnormalities, which can lead to birth defects.
• There are fewer chances of a miscarriage and other gynaecological troubles like cysts, fibroids etc.
• Pregnancy is easier for mothers as they are healthier, stronger, and younger and are unlikely to suffer from diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and so on.

Cons of getting pregnant in your 20’s

• You and your partner may not be financially sound to take up the responsibility of a child
• It may lead to early burden of responsibilities and affect your career (which may require more energy and time) as your tiny tot will need a lot of care and support from his parents
• You might not be ready to become a parent and still want to enjoy your freedom. You may want to experience life with your spouse
• It may feel too early, you may feel you’re too young and having a baby can be a little overwhelming—you may not be prepared to take on the responsibility

Fertility in your 30’s

Pros of getting pregnant in your 30’s

• It is financially a good time to have a baby as you and your spouse are normally well settled in your respective careers and may be able to support your child well
• You have high energy levels and the strength to go through the labour pains.
• You have thoroughly enjoyed your 20’s and now wish to take up the job of being a mom/dad.

Cons of getting pregnant in your 30’s

• Getting pregnant after 35 may increase the risk of abnormalities, like Down’s Syndrome in the baby. (The ratio of a baby being born with Down’s Syndrome is 1 among 1200; couples can have a Down’s screening during a pregnancy test)
• If you are above 35 years, it may take you up to a year to conceive, as the fertility rate drops significantly during this period.
• The risk of a miscarriage will have increased in your 30’s.

Fertility in your 40’s

Pros of getting pregnant in your 40’s

• You are financially secure and well-established in your career.
• You can be relaxed as a parent, more confident and economically secure.

Cons of getting pregnant in your 40’s

• It becomes quite difficult to conceive naturally.
• The quality of your eggs drop considerably, increasing the risk of birth defects in your baby.
• You are at a higher risk of health complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, placental problems etc.
• The rate of giving birth to still-born babies is also higher among older women.
• At 40, your energy levels may drop, and babies are hard work!

Multiple children and the age factor

The chances of having twins or multiples increase with age. According to experts, women who are above 35 years of age secrete the hormone FSH in more quantity than their younger peers. This hormone can cause the release of more than one egg in a cycle which can get fertilised by sperms to develop into twins or multiples. Having said that, conceiving twins is also dependent on other factors like if you have had twins earlier, or if there is a family history of multiples. In summary, only you and your partner should decide the ideal time for you to have a family. Emotional, physical and financial readiness is an important factor to consider when you plan for a baby. Good luck!