For many women today, the decision to start a family no longer follows a fixed timeline. Careers, personal goals, health concerns, and life circumstances often mean pregnancy is planned later than in previous generations. While this shift offers greater choice and independence, medical experts say it also makes understanding fertility and age more important than ever.
From a biological standpoint, natural conception is closely tied to age and ovarian reserve. Medical experts explain that women are born with a limited number of eggs, and this supply gradually decreases over time, both in quantity and quality. Fertility is generally at its strongest in the late teens and early 20s, stays fairly steady through the early 30s, and then begins to decline more noticeably after the age of 35.
Experts note that while natural conception is still possible in the late 30s and even early 40s, the chances of getting pregnant in a single menstrual cycle reduce significantly, dropping to roughly around ten percent. After the age of 45, spontaneous pregnancies become uncommon, though they can still occur in rare cases.
As eggs age, they are more likely to develop chromosomal abnormalities. This increases the risk of miscarriage and certain genetic conditions, which is why pregnancy planning becomes more medically sensitive with advancing age. Medical experts stress that seeking guidance early can help manage these risks and improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
That said, age is not the only factor that determines fertility. Experts emphasise that overall health plays a major role. Regular menstrual cycles, balanced body weight, stress levels, lifestyle habits, and existing medical conditions all influence a woman’s ability to conceive naturally. Two women of the same age may have very different fertility experiences depending on these factors.
With increased awareness and easier access to fertility testing today, women are better positioned to understand their reproductive health. Medical experts say that for those planning pregnancy later in life, whether due to career choices, personal reasons, or medical needs, early counselling can be extremely helpful. These discussions may include options like fertility preservation, egg freezing, and steps to optimise health before trying to conceive.
Doctors consistently highlight the importance of personalised care and timely evaluation. Proactive planning allows women to align their reproductive goals with their life choices while reducing potential risks. With the right information and medical support, women can make confident decisions about when and how to begin their journey to motherhood.
