How Age Affects IVF Success and Fertility

Understanding how age impacts fertility and IVF success can help individuals and couples make informed decisions about their reproductive journey.

The Impact of Age on Female Fertility

Women are born with a finite number of eggs, which gradually decline in both quantity and quality over time. The most significant decline in fertility occurs in the mid-to-late 30s. Key factors include:

1. Egg Quantity and Quality

• Women are born with approximately 1-2 million eggs, but by puberty, this number drops to around 300,000.

• By the age of 35, egg quantity and quality start to decline more rapidly.

• Poor egg quality increases the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, leading to higher miscarriage rates and lower IVF success rates.

2. Ovarian Reserve and AMH Levels

• Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a marker of ovarian reserve (the number of remaining eggs).

• Lower AMH levels indicate a reduced ovarian reserve, making it harder to conceive naturally or with IVF.

3. Increased Risk of Pregnancy Complications

• Women over 35 face a higher risk of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome.

The Impact of Age on Male Fertility

Although men continue to produce sperm throughout their lives, sperm quality declines with age. Factors affecting male fertility include:

• Decreased sperm motility and morphology (shape and movement).

• Increased DNA fragmentation, leading to a higher risk of miscarriage and birth defects.

• Reduced sperm count and testosterone levels over time.

Age and IVF Success Rates

IVF success rates vary significantly by age. According to global fertility data:

• Under 35: Success rates are highest, averaging 40-50% per cycle.

• 35-37: Success rates decline to around 30-40% per cycle.

• 38-40: The success rate drops to 20-30% per cycle.

• Over 40: IVF success rates are below 10-20% per cycle using own eggs but increase with donor eggs.

Options for Older Individuals Seeking IVF

For those facing age-related fertility challenges, several options can enhance success:

• Egg Freezing: Women in their 20s or early 30s can freeze eggs for future use when fertility declines.

• Embryo Freezing: Creating and storing embryos at a younger age preserves fertility potential.

• Donor Eggs or Sperm: Using donor eggs or sperm can significantly improve IVF success rates for older individuals.

• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): Screening embryos for chromosomal abnormalities increases the chances of a healthy pregnancy.

Lifestyle and Fertility Preservation

Although age is a primary factor, lifestyle choices can support fertility and IVF success:

• Maintain a balanced diet with fertility-boosting nutrients.

• Exercise regularly but avoid excessive physical strain.

• Manage stress through mindfulness, yoga, or counseling.

• Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to environmental toxins.

Conclusion

Age is a key determinant of fertility and IVF success. While younger individuals have higher chances of success, advancements in reproductive medicine provide options for those facing age-related fertility decline. Consulting a fertility specialist can help assess reproductive health and explore available treatment options tailored to individual needs.