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Age-Related Infertility

Age is one of the most important factors influencing fertility. While many people assume they will be able to conceive when they are ready, fertility naturally declines over time, particularly from the mid-30s onwards.

With Dr Daniel Lantsberg, age-related infertility is a core area of focus. With a clear understanding of how age impacts reproductive health, patients are guided through appropriate assessment, realistic expectations, and personalised treatment options.

How Age Affects Fertility

Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and both the quantity and quality of these eggs decline with age.

Key changes include:

  • A gradual reduction in ovarian reserve (number of eggs)
  • Declining egg quality, particularly after age 35
  • Increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities
  • Higher likelihood of miscarriage
  • Reduced response to fertility treatments over time

While these changes are natural, their impact varies between individuals, which is why personalised assessment is essential.

When to Seek Advice

If you are concerned about your fertility and age, seeking advice early can provide clarity and more options.

You may consider a fertility assessment if:

  • You are over 35 and have been trying to conceive for 6 months or more
  • You are over 40 and planning pregnancy
  • You are not ready to conceive but are considering your future fertility
  • You would like to understand your ovarian reserve and reproductive health

Early assessment allows for better planning and may improve outcomes.

Fertility Testing for Age-Related Infertility

Assessment focuses on understanding your ovarian reserve and overall reproductive health.

This may include:

  • Hormone blood tests, including AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)
  • Ultrasound assessment of ovarian follicles
  • Evaluation of menstrual cycle patterns
  • General fertility testing for both partners

These tests help provide a clearer picture of your fertility and guide appropriate treatment decisions.

Understanding Egg Quality

Egg quality is a critical factor in age-related infertility. As women age, the likelihood of eggs having chromosomal abnormalities increases.

This can lead to:

  • Reduced fertilisation rates
  • Lower embryo quality
  • Increased risk of miscarriage
  • Reduced likelihood of successful pregnancy

 

While egg quality cannot be directly measured in a simple test, it is closely linked to age and is an important consideration in treatment planning.

Your Fertility Options

While age-related changes cannot be reversed, there are effective options available depending on your circumstances.

For some patients, natural conception is still possible, particularly with optimisation of timing and ovulation.

In selected cases, simple treatments such as ovulation induction or IUI may be appropriate.

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IVF is often recommended for age-related infertility, particularly where time is an important factor. It allows for a more controlled and efficient approach to achieving pregnancy.

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For patients not ready to conceive, egg freezing provides the opportunity to preserve fertility for the future. This is most effective when performed at a younger age.

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In cases where egg quality is significantly reduced, donor egg treatment may be considered. This can offer high success rates and is discussed as part of a personalised treatment plan where appropriate.

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The Importance of Timing

One of the most important aspects of managing age-related infertility is timing.

Delays in assessment or treatment can significantly impact outcomes. Early consultation allows for:

  • Better understanding of your fertility
  • More treatment options
  • More time to plan appropriately

Even if you are not ready to conceive now, understanding your fertility can help inform future decisions.

A Personalised Approach to Care

Every patient’s situation is different. Age is only one factor, and treatment decisions are based on a comprehensive assessment of your overall fertility.

With Dr Daniel Lantsberg, care is tailored to your individual circumstances, with a focus on:

  • Clear diagnosis
  • Honest and realistic guidance
  • Efficient treatment planning
  • Ongoing support throughout your journey

Why Choose Dr Daniel Lantsberg

Dr Daniel Lantsberg is a highly experienced Melbourne fertility specialist with over a decade dedicated exclusively to fertility medicine. He combines advanced subspecialist training, international experience, and academic leadership with a genuinely personalised approach to care.

  • 10+ years in fertility medicine — 3,000+ IVF cycles, 2,000+ babies
  • Sub-specialist fellowship trained in reproductive endocrinology and infertility
  • Clinical Director at Melbourne IVF and Senior Lecturer at the University of Melbourne
  • Featured fertility specialist on Channel Nine's Big Miracles
  • Longer consultations, fewer patients, fully tailored treatment plans

Take the First Step

If you are concerned about how age may be affecting your fertility, the most important step is gaining a clear understanding of your individual situation.

Early assessment can provide clarity, options, and a structured plan moving forward.

To discuss your fertility and explore your options, book a consultation with Dr Daniel Lantsberg.

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