The advancement of technology in the past few years has been a boon for the majority of couples who are experiencing difficulty in conceiving or infertility. Age, though, is an important factor in determining whether the procedure will be successful or not. In vitro fertilisation (IVF) has blessed the expecting parents with a new hope for them to take on parenthood. Male and female fertility declines as we age, affecting sperm and egg quality, embryo formation, and the successful pregnancy rate.
Knowing how fertility and IVF success are affected by age can help individuals make proper choices about their reproductive health. Based on medical facts and government policies, let’s learn how the reproductive age affects IVF success.
How Does Female Age Affect IVF Success?
Decline in Egg Quantity and Quality
Women are born with a limited number of eggs. By puberty, the number of eggs has considerably reduced. With age, the quantity, as well as the quality, of eggs declines, and it impacts fertility.
Under 35 Years
This age group is the most likely to succeed in IVF, as their eggs tend to be better and are likely to fertilise and grow well into healthy embryos.
35-40 Years
The ovarian reserve begins to drop more quickly, and there is a higher probability of chromosomal defects in eggs.
More than 40 Years
The IVF success rate significantly declines because of poor egg quality and increased chances of miscarriage. Women of this age may need donor eggs to improve their pregnancy chances.
Risk of Chromosomal Abnormalities
When egg quality decreases, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, increases. It not only affects embryo development but also augments the risk of miscarriage. Genetic evaluation, such as Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), is generally recommended in women who are advancing in age and choosing IVF.
Uterine and Hormonal Changes
With increasing age, the uterus can become less conducive to embryo implantation as the endometrial lining thins and blood supply decreases. Hormonal shifts, especially in estrogen and progesterone levels, can also impact the capacity to carry a pregnancy.
How Does Male Age Affect IVF Success?
Decline of Sperm Quantity and Quality
While men can produce sperm their whole lives, sperm quality decreases with age. Research indicates that sperm motility (movement) and morphology (form) decline after 40 years of age.
DNA fragmentation in sperm rises, which may result in reduced fertilisation rates and increased risk of miscarriage.
Effect on Embryo Development
Poor sperm quality will result in compromised embryo formation and reduced implantation rates, compromising overall IVF success. Fertility specialists, in certain situations, may prescribe intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where one good sperm is injected directly into an egg to enhance fertilisation probability.
Government Guidelines and Age Limits for IVF
Many countries have set guidelines to ensure IVF is both safe and effective. Government-backed medical organisations, such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), have established recommended age limits for IVF treatment.
Women
Most guidelines recommend IVF before the age of 50, as pregnancy risks, such as high blood pressure and gestational diabetes, increase significantly with age.
Men
While there is no strict age limit for men, studies show that sperm quality declines after 40-50 years, reducing the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Ethical Considerations
Some countries limit IVF treatments for older couples due to concerns about parental health and the well-being of the child.
How to Improve IVF Success Rates Across Different Ages
For Women
- Egg Freezing – Women in their 20s and early 30s can consider egg freezing to preserve their fertility for later use.
- Hormonal Support – Doctors may recommend hormonal treatments to improve egg quality and prepare the uterus for implantation.
- Lifestyle Modifications – A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol can enhance fertility and IVF outcomes.
For Men
- Sperm Freezing – Younger men can freeze sperm for future use, especially if they plan to delay parenthood.
- Antioxidant-Rich Diet – Foods rich in vitamins C, E, and zinc support sperm health and reduce DNA damage.
- Avoiding Toxins – Reducing exposure to pesticides, smoking, and excessive heat can improve sperm quality.
Use of Donor Eggs or Sperm
For couples with very serious age-related fertility issues, donor eggs or sperm might be considered. Success rates using donor gametes are usually better, as they come from younger, healthier individuals.
A Reliable Name in IVF and Fertility Services in Delhi
For the ones looking for expert fertility and IVF care in Delhi, Dr. Sowjanya Aggarwal is an expert who has acquired a reputation for providing patient-centred care as well as efficiency in reproductive medicine. Having gained experience as an obstetrician and reproductive health specialist, as well as an advanced fertility treatment expert, for over twenty years now, she renders comprehensive and patient-tailored care according to the needs of each patient.
Dr. Aggarwal practices from Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, and Femmenest Centre for IVF, Anand Vihar, where she provides cutting-edge fertility treatments like IVF, IUI, egg freezing, and genetic screening. Her commitment to ethical, evidence-based reproductive healthcare makes her stand apart in the community.
Assuming control of one’s own reproductive life with the guidance of specialists and sophisticated reproductive technology can significantly enhance the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy at any age.
Book an appointment with Dr. Sowjanya Aggarwal today to learn about your reproductive options and become one step closer to being a parent.
Conclusion
Age plays a deciding role in IVF success, but with expert guidance, early planning, and access to modern fertility treatments, many couples can still live their dream of becoming parents. Whether you are just beginning to explore fertility options or considering IVF at a later age, consulting a qualified specialist is the best first step.