A woman’s fertility naturally changes with age, and one of the main reasons is the gradual decline in the number and quality of her eggs, also known as oocytes. While many women conceive naturally in their late 30s and beyond, the chances of pregnancy generally decrease as age increases, particularly after 35. The risk of chromosomal abnormalities and miscarriage also increases with advancing maternal age.
But why does egg quality decline with age, and what other factors can affect ovarian health?
Understanding the relationship between age, egg quality, ovarian reserve, lifestyle, and medical conditions can help women make more informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Unlike sperm, which the male body continues to produce throughout adult life, women are born with their lifetime supply of oocytes. The number of oocytes gradually decreases through a natural process called follicular atresia, as well as through ovulation.
As women age, the remaining oocytes also undergo age-related changes. One important concern is an increased likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs and embryos. This is one of the reasons why fertility and the chances of a healthy pregnancy decline with advancing maternal age.
This does not mean that every woman will experience the same fertility decline at the same age. There is considerable individual variation in ovarian reserve and reproductive potential.
Two terms are often used when discussing female fertility: ovarian reserve and egg quality.
Ovarian reserve refers mainly to the number of oocytes remaining in the ovaries, while egg quality relates more closely to the ability of an oocyte to be fertilized and ultimately contribute to a healthy pregnancy and live birth. These are related but different concepts.
A woman may have a measurable ovarian reserve while still experiencing age-related changes in egg quality. Similarly, a low ovarian-reserve result does not automatically mean that natural pregnancy is impossible.
Tests such as AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) and antral follicle count (AFC) can provide information about ovarian reserve and may help doctors understand how the ovaries could respond to fertility treatment. However, these tests should be interpreted alongside age, medical history, reproductive history, and other fertility factors rather than being treated as a standalone prediction of fertility.
Age is one of the most important factors affecting female fertility. Fertility gradually declines with age, and the decline becomes more noticeable during the later reproductive years. After 35, the chances of pregnancy and live birth decrease, while the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities and miscarriage increases.
One reason is that older oocytes are more likely to develop errors during the process of chromosome separation. This can increase the likelihood of embryos having an abnormal number of chromosomes.
For this reason, age is an important factor that fertility specialists consider when assessing a woman’s reproductive potential and discussing treatment options.
Age is not the only factor that can influence fertility. Certain medical and reproductive conditions may affect the ovaries, ovulation, or ovarian reserve.
Conditions such as endometriosis, previous ovarian surgery, some genetic conditions, and treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation can be associated with diminished ovarian reserve or impaired reproductive potential.
Some women may also have a family history of early menopause or other factors that could influence their reproductive timeline.
This is why fertility should always be considered on an individual basis rather than based on age alone.
Lifestyle does not completely prevent the natural age-related decline in egg quality, but healthy habits can support overall reproductive and general health.
Smoking, for example, is associated with adverse reproductive effects and can negatively affect fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, and avoiding harmful substances are important components of a healthy preconception lifestyle.
However, it is important to be realistic about what lifestyle changes can achieve. There is currently insufficient evidence that a specific diet or particular food can reverse age-related egg-quality decline.
Women planning pregnancy should discuss appropriate supplements, including folic acid, with their healthcare provider.
Age is an important factor, but diminished ovarian reserve can occur in younger women as well.
Possible contributing factors include:
At the same time, ovarian reserve varies significantly between women of the same age. Therefore, a woman’s chronological age alone cannot tell the complete story about her ovarian reserve.
This is one of the most common questions women ask when planning pregnancy.
There is currently no proven treatment that can reverse the natural ageing process of human eggs. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking, managing medical conditions, and seeking appropriate medical advice can support overall reproductive health.
The goal is not to “stop” ovarian aging but to understand an individual’s fertility situation and make informed decisions at the right time.
If fertility treatment is being considered, a specialist may assess ovarian reserve, ovulation, the reproductive tract, sperm health, age, and other relevant factors before recommending an individualized treatment plan.
Women should not wait indefinitely if they have concerns about fertility.
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, fertility evaluation is generally recommended after 12 months of trying to conceive for women under 35, and after 6 months for women aged 35 or older. For women over 40, more immediate evaluation may be appropriate. Earlier assessment can also be recommended when there are known conditions or risk factors associated with infertility.
A fertility evaluation may include assessment of ovulation, ovarian reserve, the uterus and fallopian tubes, and sperm health. Importantly, fertility evaluation should consider both partners where appropriate.
Age-related changes in the number and characteristics of oocytes contribute to declining fertility. The risk of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs and embryos also increases with maternal age.
No. AMH is primarily a marker of ovarian reserve and should not be interpreted as a standalone test of whether a woman can conceive. Age and the overall clinical picture are important when assessing fertility.
A healthy lifestyle can support overall reproductive health, but there is no proven lifestyle change that can reverse the natural age-related decline in egg quality. Avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising appropriately, and managing existing health conditions are important for general preconception health.
Women under 35 are generally advised to seek an infertility evaluation after 12 months of trying, while women aged 35 or older should generally seek evaluation after 6 months. Women over 40 or those with known fertility risk factors may benefit from earlier assessment.
Egg quantity and quality naturally change as a woman gets older, making age one of the most important factors in female fertility. However, every woman’s reproductive health is different. Ovarian reserve, medical history, lifestyle, ovulation, reproductive anatomy, and male-factor fertility can all contribute to the chances of conception.
Understanding your fertility earlier can help you make informed decisions rather than relying on age or a single fertility test alone. If you are concerned about your fertility, experiencing irregular periods, or planning pregnancy later in your reproductive years, speaking with a fertility specialist can help you understand your individual situation and available options. Orchid Fertility Clinic in Dubai provides comprehensive fertility services and personalized care to help individuals and couples understand their fertility and explore suitable treatment options.
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Partha Das, Consultant Reproductive Medicine and Infertility
Medical review date: 16 October, 2026
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Fertility and IVF outcomes vary between individuals and depend on a range of medical and personal factors. The information provided does not guarantee any particular treatment outcome or pregnancy result.
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