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Does age impact the success of IVF treatment?

Age is the single-most important factor affecting a woman's fertility. While good health improves the chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy baby, it doesn't override the effects of age on a woman's fertility. Women are more fertile between 20 to 30 years. A significant drop and steep decline in fertility has been observed especially in Indian women, after they turn 35.

Dr. Sunil Eshwar, MBBS, MD, DNB, PGDHS, DIP, Gyn Laparoscopy, medical director, fertility specialist and advanced laparoscopic surgeon, elaborates, "The woman's age is the most critical factor when it comes to determining the success or outcome of the IVF treatment. To enhance success rates, the quality and quantity of gametes (eggs and sperms) need to be improved. A personalised plan can also improve chances for a good outcome. Making proper lifestyle changes using age-old alternate therapies like acupuncture, yoga and satvik diet are also helpful."

Dr. Sunil adds that women who decide to delay pregnancy, should get their Ovarian Reserve Test done. "Oocyte freezing should be considered by women planning to postpone their pregnancy. Couples could also look at embryo freezing as an option. It is always advisable to have a yearly checkup."

"When women with low ovarian reserve cross 35 years, a proper treatment plan has to be made which involves pre-treatment with medicines for at least six to seven weeks. IVF stimulation protocol like mild stimulation and pooling of embryos are very good options to improve IVF success rates." he adds.

The ovarian rejuvenation procedure has shown some benefits in women with poor ovarian reserve, Dr. Sunil said, but added that couples need to discuss their options in detail with clinicians as this is not yet a routinely recommended procedure.

"When it comes to pregnancy and parenthood, time is of essence because age naturally lowers monthly fertility odds." Don't wait for long, Dr. Sunil says.