In many modern societies people are waiting longer to start their families, often until their early or mid thirties. Because of this, questions have arisen about how age affects the ability of a woman to get pregnant.
Women typically have a decrease in fertility beginning in their early 30s. ON the average a woman in her mid-30s or older will take longer to conceive than a younger woman. At age 30 to 35, fertility is 15 to 20 percent below maximum. From age 35 to 39, the decrease is 25 to 50 percent. From 40 to 45, the decrease is 50 to 95 percent.
Age-related declines in fertility may be at least partly due to less frequent ovulation or to other problems such as endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to that lining the uterus attaches to the ovaries or fallopian tubes and interferes with conception.
If you are over 35 and trying to conceive, you should see a physician after trying for around six months. Some studies have shown that about one-third of women between age 35 and 39 and two-thirds of women over 40 have fertility problems. When they do get pregnant, women older than 35 may have a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and placenta previa. There is also a potentially higher risk of having a baby with low birth weight, and of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome.
Many cases of infertility can be treated successfully. While women over age 35 may have more difficulty conceiving, they also have a greater chance of bearing twins. The likelihood of naturally conceived (without fertility treatment) twins peaks between ages 35 and 39.
Related Articles
Acupressure and Fertility
Age and Ability to Get Pregnant
Are My Chances Of Getting Pregnant Significantly Less If I Only Have One Fallopian Tube?
Birth Control and Trying to Conceive
Can you tell by using a BBT when implantation occurs?
Does My Age Play A Part In My Ability To Get Pregnant?
Gender Selection and Trying to Conceive
How can I increase my chances of having a boy?
How can I increase my chances of having a girl?
How can Progesterone cream help increase my chances of getting pregnant?
How often should I have sex if I am trying to get pregnant?
How quickly after a miscarriage can I get pregnant?
How to Use a Basal Thermometer
I have to get a Rubella Vaccination but want to try to get pregnant. How long do I have to wait?
Is it possible to have too much sex if we are trying to get pregnant?
Is it safe for my husband to use a sauna if we are trying to conceive?
Natural Fertility Signs
Nutrition and Trying to Conceive
Pregnancy Symptoms
Pregnancy Test Sensitivity
Signs of Pregnancy
The Best Sexual Positions To Get Pregnant
Tips on Getting Pregnant
Tips on How to Get Pregnant
What benefits do raspberry leaf tea have while trying to conceive and during pregnancy?
Related Products from BabyHopes.com
Prenatal Vitamins
Basal Thermometer
Pre-Seed Lubricant
Ovulation Test Kits
Pregnancy Tests
Fertility Blend for Men
Fertility Blend for Women
FertilAid Fertility Supplement for Women
FertilAid for Men
FertiliTea Fertility Tea
FertilMARQ Low Sperm Count Home Test Kit
| Each pregnancy, expectant mother, and unborn child is different. Your pregnancy may not progress the same as the information found here. The information here is based on the average pregnancy. It's not meant to be a replacement for any advice your may receive from your doctor. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy, we advise you to contact your doctor. |
Print Article
Send to a friend

Search
if you have any questions or comments!