Fertility and Age

The age of women can affect the chances of conception considerably. Statistics have shown that the optimal age for conception in the females is between 22-26 years old. Fertility decreases steadily after 30 years old with a rapid decline after 40 years old. This is because the quality of egg decline significantly with age. However, these statistics serve only as a general guideline and there are exceptional cases.

It is estimated that one in every 3 couples in which the wife is aged 35 and above will have problems with fertility and 2/3 of women will not be able to conceive after 40 years of age.

As for males, the testes tend to get slightly smaller and softer with age. The quality of the sperm also tends to decline with age although not so drastic as seen in the eggs of women. However, decline in sexual drive and difficulty in achieving erections in older men may be important factors in affecting chances of conception. Studies have shown that men aged 35-39 had significant lower fertility than younger men. Risks of miscarriage and genetic abnormalities in the babies increase with the age of the father.