The link between maternal age and infertility

Dr. Mark Denker clarifies the link between maternal age and infertility for our Boca Raton fertility center patients

When A-listers like Jennifer Lopez, Courtney Cox, and Celine Dion welcome babies into their lives, it makes the news. A recent article in Business Insider, however, indicated that these celebrities may unwittingly send the message to women across the country that achieving pregnancy in your 40s can happen with little effort.

As the medical director for our Boca Raton fertility center, Dr. Mark Denker wants to set the record straight about the impact of maternal age on fertility.

Understanding the basics of female reproduction

Although getting pregnant naturally in your late 30s or early 40s can certainly occur, the odds are not stacked in a woman’s favor. Unlike men who constantly replenish sperm throughout much of their adult life, women are born with all the eggs they will ever produce. Female fertility peaks in the late-20s and steadily declines after this point. Dr. Denker offers these fast facts to provide perspective.

• A 30-year-old woman has a 20 percent chance of getting pregnant in any month.
• By age 40, the same woman has a 5 percent chance of getting pregnant in any cycle.
• Even with in-vitro fertilization, IVF, age is the most significant factor for female fertility.

Receive top-notch treatment at our Boca Raton fertility center

At Palm Beach Fertility Center, we encourage women who are concerned about their age to get all the information they need to make informed decisions. In all cases, Dr. Denker would begin with a complete evaluation. These fertility tests allow him to review hormone levels, assess ovarian reserves and check for any physical abnormalities. Depending on the results, Dr. Denker would then recommend the appropriate fertility treatment.

If you have questions about your age and your ability to conceive, the team at our Boca Raton fertility center can address your concerns. During your visit, Dr. Denker will discuss your specific situation in more detail. Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation.