When to Seek Fertility Advice

A key consideration in fertility is egg age. People are born with their lifetime supply of eggs, over a million at birth, which gradually decreases over time. By adulthood, this number falls to around 400,000, and the decline accelerates from the mid-30s onward. By around age 50, egg release ceases altogether.

In addition to the decrease in number, egg quality also diminishes with age. This means that even if ovulation is regular, the likelihood of achieving a pregnancy reduces over time.

Age has a significant impact on natural conception rates. At around 30 years of age, the chance of conceiving each month without assistance is approximately 30%, with about 80% of people becoming pregnant within six months. By age 40, the monthly chance drops to roughly 5%, and only about 25% will conceive within six months. For this reason, individuals over 35 are encouraged to seek medical advice earlier if they are trying to conceive.

It’s also important to recognise that sperm quality can change over time, even in those who have previously had children.

There are certain situations where it is advisable to consult a doctor sooner rather than later. These include irregular or absent menstrual cycles, periods that are particularly heavy or painful, a history of miscarriage, or any known medical condition or treatment that may impact fertility.

If you have any concerns about your reproductive health, it’s important to feel comfortable seeking guidance from your doctor.