How age impacts fertility

Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team – August 2026.

More women* are having babies after age 35, including people having their first baby. Between 2014 to 2025, the U.S. fertility rate for ages 35 to 39 increased 5%. And for age 40+, it rose 24%. (*We’ll use “women” to refer to sex at birth.)

Aging does raise some concerns with fertility and pregnancy. But there is strong support available if you’re hoping to become pregnant.

Let’s look at some ways age may affect fertility, keeping in mind that every person is unique. It’s always best to ask your healthcare provider for guidance about what YOU can expect. They can learn about your health history, current situation, and family goals. Your provider’s guidance will be more meaningful than general statistics.

Chances of pregnancy

There are a few reasons it’s harder to become pregnant as we age, including:

• Fewer eggs: We have significantly fewer eggs by age 40. We’re born with all the eggs we’ll ever have, and don’t have the ability to grow new eggs. Our egg supply goes down each year, and the rate of decline speeds up after age 35.
• Declining egg quality: Our eggs are with us from birth (technically, before birth). This means they also go through an aging process. Older eggs are more likely to have chromosome errors and a lower chance of resulting in pregnancy.
• Declining sperm quality: Aging can affect sperm health, just not to the same degree as eggs. Men do continue to produce new sperm as they get older.
• Health conditions: We’re more likely to develop health conditions affecting fertility as we age. Examples include endometriosis, fibroids, and scar tissue in the uterus.

What does all this mean? After 6 months of trying, about 60% to 65% of women in their early 30s become pregnant. At age 40, about 25% to 30% will become pregnant after trying for 6 months.

Unfortunately, there is a higher miscarriage rate with age. This is because older eggs have a higher chance for an unexpected number of chromosomes. About 1 in 3 pregnancies end in miscarriage after age 40.

This can all be stressful to think about. But many healthy pregnancies do happen each year for older parents. So, again, please ask your provider to help put the risks into perspective and personalize them for you. Everyone has their own health profile, lifestyle, and history.

Pregnancy considerations

Pregnancy after age 35 carries higher risks for you and the baby. However, your team will be there to counsel, support, and monitor you at every step.

With increasing age, you may have a greater risk for pregnancy complications. These may include gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and needing a C-section. The risks for the baby include a higher risk for preterm birth and low birth weight.

Your provider will talk about any possible risks based on your age and health history. And they will carefully track your progress at each visit. Some people may work with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist as well. Your care plan will be designed to keep you and your baby safe.

Advances in fertility technology

Women can and do conceive without fertility treatment at older ages. And if your provider suggests fertility care, it’s good to know that reproductive technology continues to evolve.

If you’re 35 or older, it’s recommended to see a fertility specialist after 6 months of trying. If you’re 40, you may wish to go sooner. Your fertility specialist will learn about your unique situation. Together, you can explore the many options for building or expanding your family.

Your Progyny Care Advocate is here to guide you through your family-building journey. We can help you find a provider, suggest personalized education, and lend emotional support when you need it.

Explore related:

• Trying to conceive after age 40
• How age may affect the uterus and fertility

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.

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