While fertility naturally declines with age, especially for women over 35, experts say pregnancy after 40 is still possible—with the right medical support and lifestyle changes.
In a recent interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Vidya V Bhat, laparoscopic and IVF specialist and Medical Director at RadhaKrishna Multispeciality Hospital, Bengaluru, shed light on how couples—especially those in their late 30s or 40s—can improve their chances of conception through IVF and natural methods.
Dr. Bhat explained that egg quality and quantity significantly decrease with age, and women over 40 are more likely to have eggs with chromosomal abnormalities. This results in lower implantation rates, increased miscarriage risks, and overall reduced chances of pregnancy.
To improve outcomes, fertility specialists often suggest embryo freezing at a younger age or considering egg donation.
Although the decline in male fertility is less steep, it’s still important. After age 40–45, men may experience lower sperm count, decreased motility, and higher DNA fragmentation, all of which can negatively impact embryo quality and IVF success. Older paternal age has also been associated with a higher risk of genetic conditions in offspring.
Dr. Bhat shared several lifestyle recommendations that can support fertility in women over 40:
Balanced Nutrition: Eat a diet rich in antioxidants—such as berries, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds—to support egg health.
Regular Exercise: Gentle workouts like walking or yoga help increase blood flow to reproductive organs and reduce stress.
Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy BMI improves the chances of successful IVF.
Targeted Supplements: Under medical advice, supplements like CoQ10, DHEA, and prenatal vitamins may improve egg quality.
Stress Reduction: Techniques such as meditation, acupuncture, or yoga can help manage stress, which may improve IVF outcomes.
Avoid Harmful Habits: Smoking, alcohol, and excess caffeine should be avoided as they can impair fertility.
Dr. Bhat emphasized that while age is a significant factor, many women in their late 30s and early 40s still successfully conceive with IVF when they follow proper medical guidance and adopt supportive lifestyle habits.
