The Age Factor in Infertility

It is well known that as a woman ages it is more diffi cult for her to fall pregnant and that fertility in women decreases sharply from age 35. At Queensland Fertility Group our fi ndings indicate that the decline begins earlier than initially thought. 32 years represents the beginning of the decline in the fertility status of the majority of females.

Whilst assisted reproductive treatments are very successful (particularly IVF), women over the age of 32 often require multiple cycles to achieve pregnancy. Currently, there is no successful medical technique devised that will make older eggs more fertile. Furthermore, patients requiring donor eggs may be surprised to learn that the average waiting period on the Queensland Fertility Group ‘donor egg’ program is 7 years.

What this is telling us is that couples should not delay medical investigation and intervention. Couples over 30 who are experiencing diffi culties conceiving would be encouraged to be proactive with treatment. Don’t wait 6 months and certainly don’t wait 12 months – help is available! Let the Queensland Fertility Group specialists work with you to achieve your pregnancy sooner.