Many factors can affect the likelihood of getting pregnant, and age is one of the most important ones. Women are born with a finite number of eggs that gradually decline in number and quality as they age.

As a result, fertility decreases significantly as women enter their late 30s and 40s. Below, we explore the chances of getting pregnant at different ages and what factors affect them.

Age 20-24

Women in their early 20s are most fertile, with about a 25% chance of getting pregnant in any given month. This is because they have a high number of healthy eggs and their bodies are more equipped to support a pregnancy.

However, it’s important to note that even in this age group, getting pregnant may still take several months of trying, as fertility varies from person to person.

Age 25-29

By their late 20s, women’s fertility begins to decline slightly, but they still have a good chance of getting pregnant, with about a 20% chance each month.

At this age, ovulation can be disrupted by factors such as stress or weight fluctuations, so it’s still important to prioritize healthy lifestyle habits for optimal fertility.

Age 30-34

Women in their early 30s have about a 15% chance of getting pregnant each month. At this age, the quality and quantity of eggs continue to decrease, which can make it harder to conceive.

This age group is also more likely to experience conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids, which can further reduce fertility.

Age 35-39

Starting in their mid-30s, women’s fertility decreases significantly. By age 35, the chance of getting pregnant each month drops to about 10%.

This is partly due to a decline in the number and quality of eggs, as well as hormonal changes that can make it harder for eggs to implant in the uterus. Women in this age group are also at higher risk for conditions such as chromosomal abnormalities or miscarriage.

Related Article Table displaying fertility by age

Age 40 and above

For women over 40, getting pregnant naturally becomes increasingly difficult. The chance of conceiving each month drops to around 5%, and even with fertility treatments, success rates are lower.

This is because the remaining eggs are often of lower quality and can have chromosomal abnormalities, which increase the risk of miscarriage or birth defects. Women in this age group are also at higher risk for complications such as gestational diabetes or high blood pressure.

Factors that affect fertility at any age

While age is one of the most significant factors affecting fertility, there are other factors that can impact the chances of getting pregnant at any age:.

Lifestyle factors:

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and poor nutrition can all affect fertility by disrupting ovulation or damaging sperm.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and limited alcohol intake can help optimize fertility.

Medical conditions:

Conditions such as Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or thyroid disorders can all affect fertility. Seeking treatment for any underlying medical conditions before trying to conceive can improve the chances of getting pregnant.

Weight:

Being underweight or overweight can both affect fertility by disrupting hormonal balance and ovulation. Maintaining a healthy weight can improve the likelihood of getting pregnant.

Stress:

High levels of stress can cause hormonal imbalances that affect ovulation and sperm production. Managing stress through practices such as meditation, yoga, or therapy can help improve fertility.

Conclusion

Age is one of the most important factors affecting fertility and the chances of getting pregnant. However, there are other factors that can impact fertility at any age, such as lifestyle factors, medical conditions, weight, and stress.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, seeking treatment for any underlying medical issues, and managing stress are all important steps to optimize fertility.