Up to what age can a woman give birth?

Current trends and biology

According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the average age of women at the birth of their first child has fallen from 21.4 years in 1970 to 26.8 years in 2017.

In the United Kingdom, this figure has also risen from 25.6 years in 1920 to 29 years in 2018. According to data from the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom, in 2021, more than 25% of women gave birth to their first child at the age of 35 or older. Over the past two decades, the number of women deciding to give birth after the age of 40 has more than doubled. Although social norms are changing, biology remains the same: the female body does not adapt to career or personal ambitions, and the optimal time for conception retains its natural boundaries.

Female physiology remains unchanged. The body lives according to a predetermined biological programme. Eggs are formed in girls before birth, and their quality and quantity decline with age. Therefore, it is advisable to make the decision to have a child when reproductive functions are at their peak.

Age and fertility

The older a woman is, the lower her ovarian reserve, i.e. the supply of eggs suitable for fertilisation. After the age of 30, fertility begins to decline, after 35 the process accelerates, and after 40 it becomes particularly noticeable. This process is irreversible.

Not only does the number of eggs change, but their genetic stability also changes. The risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases. That is why age is one of the key factors in reproductive health.

Menopause marks the end of the reproductive period. Menstruation stops, ovulation disappears, and the endometrium becomes less receptive to embryo implantation. However, even during this period, residual ovarian hormone function may persist, ensuring the body’s adaptation and maintaining a woman’s overall well-being.

The optimal reproductive period and its risks

From a physiological point of view, the optimal age for the birth of the first child is considered to be between 20 and 28 years. For the second child, it is desirable to give birth before the age of 35. At this time, a woman’s body is most ready for conception and pregnancy, and her eggs are of the highest quality.

Late pregnancy is accompanied by a number of risks: the likelihood of genetic abnormalities in the foetus, such as Down syndrome, increases; the load on the mother’s cardiovascular system increases; the risk of pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia, increases. In addition, the likelihood of premature birth and caesarean section increases.

Planning a pregnancy after 35

Pregnancy at a mature age requires more careful preparation. It is necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination: determine ovarian reserve using AMH analysis and ultrasound, and rule out genetic and hormonal disorders. Weight control is also critically important: being overweight can reduce fertility and increase the risk of complications. Surgical correction may be required in the presence of fibroids, polyps or endometrioid cysts. Psychological readiness for pregnancy is equally important: support from specialists and your partner helps to build confidence in a successful outcome.

Reproductive technologies after 40

Even in mature age, motherhood is possible thanks to the achievements of assisted reproductive medicine. IVF using your own eggs, IVF with egg donation, IVF with double donation, nuclear transfer (PNT or MST), embryo donation and, in some cases, surrogacy allow many women to experience the joy of motherhood.

Indications for donation include ovarian reserve depletion, surgical interventions that have affected ovarian function, and hereditary diseases. The main condition for successful implantation remains the health of the endometrium and the ability of the uterus to accept the embryo.

Late and early motherhood: pros and cons

Mature age can offer advantages: awareness, emotional stability, stable financial situation, career fulfilment. Young women, in turn, have physiological advantages: high-quality eggs, low risk of genetic abnormalities, greater physical endurance.

If you are planning to become a mother in the future

If pregnancy is delayed, it is advisable to assess your reproductive potential in advance and consider egg freezing at a young age. This creates ‘biological insurance’ and broadens your reproductive horizons. Regular check-ups with a gynaecologist, treatment of chronic diseases and a healthy lifestyle increase the chances of a successful pregnancy in the future.

Reproductive choices and the possibilities of modern medicine

The optimal age for having a child is between 20 and 35. However, modern medicine gives women more freedom and time. An individual approach, timely examinations and the use of ART technologies allow many women to become mothers at a later age.

The Natuvitro reproductive medicine clinic supports its patients at every stage, from diagnosis to childbirth. A team of specialists helps women realise their dream of motherhood, regardless of their age and reproductive circumstances.

Last Updated on July 30, 2025 by Tania Nizova | Published: July 30, 2025