Until what age can a woman give birth?

Current Trends and Biology

According to the American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average age of women at their first birth has risen from 21.4 years in 1970 to 26.8 years in 2017. In the UK, this figure has also increased, from 25.6 years in 1920 to 29 years in 2018. Having a first child after the age of 30 is quite common today. However, these changes only pertain to social norms, not biology.

Female physiology remains unchanged: a woman's body operates according to a certain biological schedule and does not "wait" for professional or personal fulfillment. Therefore, it is important to make the decision to have children when fertility and the quality of sex cells are at their peak.

Biological and Medical Aspects of Age

How does age affect fertility?

As women age, the number of antral follicles in the ovaries decreases, as does the quality of the eggs. This is a natural and irreversible process. The older a woman gets, the older her eggs, which are formed even before her birth, become.

Menopause and the End of Reproductive Function

With the onset of menopause

• the number of oocytes decreases;
• menstrual cycles stop;
• ovulation ceases;
• age-related involution of the endometrium occurs.

The residual hormonal function of the ovaries is preserved, contributing to a smooth restructuring of the body, protection of the cardiovascular system, and general well-being during aging.

Optimal Age and Potential Risks

Recommended Age for Having Children

Conventionally, the optimal age for the birth of the first child is considered to be between 20 and 28 years, and for the second, up to 35 years. This is primarily due to the quality of eggs and the low risks of complications for the mother and fetus.

The Main Risks of Late Pregnancy

• Genetic: the probability of having a child with Down syndrome increases with age.
• Cardiovascular: the burden on the mother's body after 36 years significantly increases.
• Gestational: pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and fetal hypoxia are more common.
• Obstetric: increased risk of complications during delivery and the need for surgical intervention.

Preparation for Pregnancy After 35

A Comprehensive Preparation Includes

• Genetic Diagnosis (karyotype) of the couple for hereditary risks;
• Weight Control: obesity reduces fertility and increases the risk of complications;
• Medication Treatment: to normalize hormonal levels, blood coagulation, and avoid immunological barriers;
• Surgical Recommendations: if it is necessary to remove fibroids, polyps, or endometriotic cysts;
• Psychological Support: developing a positive attitude and confidence in success.

Pregnancy After 40 and Assisted Reproductive Technology

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

Even after the age of 40, it is possible to successfully carry a pregnancy with the help of assisted reproductive technology (ART):

1. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) using your own eggs;
2. Pronuclear Transfer (PNT) or Spindle Transfer (MST);
3. Oocyte Donation Program;
4. Embryo Donation and Surrogacy (in complicated cases).

When is IVF with donor eggs Indicated?

The program is utilized when

• ovarian reserve exhaustion;
• ovarian surgery;
• presence of hereditary diseases.

The main condition for success is a healthy endometrium and the uterus's ability to accommodate the embryo.

Late Pregnancy: Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of Late Motherhood

• Conscious choice and great responsibility;
• Emotional maturity and relationship stability;
• Financial and social stability.

Advantages of Young Adulthood

• High-quality eggs;
• Minimal risks of chromosomal abnormalities;
• Natural carrying and delivery;
• Fewer chronic diseases and external factors.

What to Do If You Delay Motherhood?

• Have your ovarian reserve evaluated (ultrasound, AMH);
• Consider cryopreservation of eggs at a young age;
• Treat gynecological diseases affecting fertility;
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle - this impacts the future genetic material of your child.

What is the Ideal Age?

From a physiological perspective, the optimal age to have a child is between 20 and 35 years. However, thanks to advances in medicine and the possibilities of assisted reproductive technology, women can become mothers even later.

Each case is different and largely depends on health status, lifestyle, and timely referral to specialists.

The team at the Natuvitro reproductive medicine clinic supports its patients at all stages: from planning to delivery. Competent preparation and a personalized approach allow the dream of motherhood to be realized at any age.