Fertility Basics
Fertility declines naturally as women age
A healthy 30-year-old woman has about a 25%—30% chance of getting pregnant naturally each month. A healthy 40-year-old woman has a 10% or lower chance of getting pregnant naturally each month.
Certain health conditions can affect fertility
- Infrequent or irregular periodsHistory of recurrent miscarriage (2 or more)
- Ovulation disorders or hormone imbalances like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Endometriosis Uterine growths (like fibroids or polyps)
- Blocked fallopian tubes or uterine disordersDiminished ovarian reserve and poor egg quality.
While not always a cause of fertility issues, lifestyle can sometimes play a role.
- Weight (being significantly under- or overweight)
- Male partner’s drug use
- Smoking
- Excessive physical or emotional stress
