20, 30 or 40 years old: when are the chances of pregnancy higher?

Last update:December 23, 2024, 7:12 p.m. IST

According to an expert, a healthy couple in their early 20s has a 25 to 30 percent chance of conceiving each month, making it the best age for a natural pregnancy.

After age 40, a woman’s chance of getting pregnant with each cycle decreases by 5%, accompanied by a notable reduction in the quality and quantity of eggs. (Representative/Shutterstock)

After childhood, individuals pass through youth and often marriage. Although it is common to have children after marriage, it is more accurate to describe it as a societal norm rather than a strict rule of nature.

Biologically, women begin producing eggs after puberty, usually around age 13, and these eggs mature to allow fertilization. Conversely, men generally begin producing sperm capable of fertilizing between the ages of 14 and 15.

However, successful fertilization of an egg by a sperm depends on many factors and is not guaranteed even when both partners have reached puberty. It is therefore crucial to understand that a 15-year-old man, even if he produces sperm, is not necessarily fertile. This raises the question: at what age does human fertility peak?

Twenties is the best age for women

The age of 20 is considered biologically optimal for female fertility. According to a report in Times of India, fertility expert Dr Sugata Mishra said that both men and women reach their peak fertility in their 20s, with women being the most fertile at 20.

At this age, women have their full supply of eggs, and these eggs are healthier. Dr Mishra says a healthy couple in their early 20s has a 25 to 30 percent chance of conceiving each month. This age represents the time when pregnancy is most likely to occur naturally for most individuals. Additionally, male fertility also peaks in this age group, with sperm count and quality being optimal.

Does fertility weaken at age 30?

As one ages past the age of 20, fertility begins to decline. By age 35, a woman’s chances of getting pregnant each cycle decrease by about 15 to 20 percent. The risk of miscarriage and chromosome-related disorders also increases.

On the other hand, a gradual decline in sperm quality can also be observed in men. This does not mean that after 20-25 years a woman or man will no longer have children. By the age of 30, most men and women are naturally fertile and can still conceive naturally. However, the chances of natural conception gradually decrease over time.

What are the chances of pregnancy after 40?

According to experts, after the age of 40, there is a significant decline in fertility in both men and women. A woman’s chance of getting pregnant with each cycle decreases by 5%, accompanied by a noticeable reduction in the quality and quantity of eggs. Additionally, the risk of egg-related complications increases with age. Similarly, men experience a decrease in the number and quality of their sperm.

If the decline in male fertility at age 40 is not as strong as for women, it is no less present. Despite these challenges, natural conception after age 40 is possible, although the likelihood is significantly reduced. Therefore, many people in this age group are turning to IVF technology to make conception easier.