Turning 35 and trying to conceive can bring questions you may not have expected. Perhaps you’ve been trying for a baby for some time, or you’re considering fertility treatment and wondering whether age could affect your chances. You may even be asking yourself whether you’ve waited too long.
The reassuring news is that IVF after age 35 can still result in pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby. However, fertility generally declines with age, particularly as egg quantity and quality decrease. Your chances of success depend on several factors, including your age, ovarian reserve, medical history, sperm quality and the treatment recommended by your fertility specialist.
For anyone considering IVF in Uyo or elsewhere in Akwa Ibom State, understanding these changes can help you make informed decisions about your fertility. The goal isn’t to create unnecessary pressure. It’s to understand your options and know when to seek professional guidance.
Can You Get Pregnant Through IVF After Age 35?
Yes. Many women become pregnant through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) after age 35, including women in their late 30s and early 40s. However, IVF cannot completely reverse the effects of ageing on eggs.
IVF is a fertility treatment in which eggs are collected from the ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. An embryo is then transferred into the uterus, where it may implant and develop into a pregnancy.
Age matters because both the number of available eggs and the proportion likely to produce chromosomally normal embryos tend to decrease over time. This can affect fertilisation, embryo development, implantation and the risk of miscarriage.
Still, age alone cannot tell you whether IVF will work for you. Two women who are both 37 may have very different fertility test results, medical histories and treatment outcomes.
If you’re over 35 and concerned about your ability to conceive, a fertility assessment can help clarify your situation and the options available to you.
How Does Age Affect IVF Success Rates?
Age is one of the most important factors affecting IVF outcomes, especially when using your own eggs. Fertility doesn’t suddenly stop on your 35th birthday, but the decline often becomes more pronounced during the late 30s and early 40s.
According to the UK’s Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), pregnancy rates following fresh embryo transfers using patients’ own eggs in 2023 were approximately 34% for ages 35–37, 25% for ages 38–39 and 9% for ages 43–44. These are UK figures for pregnancy per embryo transfer, not live-birth rates, and they should not be treated as predictions for an individual patient or as Doren Fertility Centre’s results.
IVF at 35–37
For many women in this age group, IVF remains a reasonable treatment option. Outcomes vary depending on egg quality, ovarian reserve, sperm health, embryo development and other medical factors.
If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, an early fertility evaluation can help identify possible causes and determine whether IVF, another fertility treatment or further investigation makes sense.
IVF at 38–40
IVF can still work during this period, but age-related changes in egg quality become increasingly relevant. Some patients may produce fewer eggs during stimulation, and a smaller proportion of embryos may develop normally.
Your fertility specialist can review your test results, explain the possible outcomes and discuss whether additional treatment cycles may be needed.
IVF after 40
Pregnancy through IVF is still possible after 40, particularly for some patients with favourable fertility findings. However, success using one’s own eggs generally declines further, while the risk of miscarriage increases.
Depending on individual circumstances, a specialist may discuss IVF using your own eggs, donor eggs where available and appropriate, or other family-building options. These decisions involve medical, personal, financial and sometimes legal considerations.
When comparing IVF clinics, ask whether their published figures refer to pregnancy or live birth, and whether they measure outcomes per cycle started, egg collection or embryo transfer.
Why Does Egg Quality Matter After 35?
Egg quality refers partly to whether an egg has the appropriate chromosomal material needed for normal embryo development. As women age, a greater proportion of eggs may have chromosomal abnormalities.
This can affect fertility in several ways:
- Fertilisation: Not every collected egg will fertilise successfully.
- Embryo development: Not every fertilised egg will develop into an embryo suitable for transfer.
- Implantation: Some embryos may not implant in the uterus.
- Miscarriage: Chromosomal abnormalities are one reason miscarriage becomes more common with increasing maternal age.
Egg quantity also matters. Ovarian reserve describes the remaining supply of eggs, although no test can count every egg or precisely predict whether you will become pregnant.
A low ovarian reserve result does not automatically mean pregnancy is impossible. Similarly, a reassuring test result cannot guarantee IVF success.
What Fertility Tests May Be Recommended Before IVF?
Before recommending IVF treatment, a fertility specialist will usually assess the relevant medical history and may recommend investigations for one or both partners. The aim is to understand what may be affecting conception and select treatment based on the findings.
1. Ovarian reserve testing
An anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) blood test and an antral follicle count using ultrasound may help estimate how the ovaries could respond to fertility medication.
These tests can help with treatment planning, but they do not independently measure egg quality or guarantee a pregnancy.
2. Hormone and ovulation assessment
Your clinician may review your menstrual cycle and recommend blood tests or other investigations when appropriate. The exact tests depend on your symptoms, cycle pattern and medical history.
3. Uterus and fallopian tube assessment
Ultrasound and, where indicated, further investigations can help identify conditions such as fibroids, uterine polyps or other abnormalities that may affect fertility or pregnancy planning.
Not everyone needs every test. Your specialist should explain why each investigation is recommended.
4. Sperm analysis
Male-factor infertility can contribute to difficulty conceiving, even when the woman is over 35. A semen analysis helps assess sperm concentration, movement and shape. Additional tests may be recommended when indicated.
5. Review of your medical history
Previous pregnancies, miscarriages, pelvic surgery, endometriosis, fibroids, medications and other health conditions can influence the treatment plan.
A comprehensive evaluation helps avoid focusing only on a woman’s age when other treatable factors may be involved.
What Happens During IVF After Age 35?
The IVF process is broadly similar at different ages, although your specialist may adapt the medication, monitoring and treatment strategy to your results.
Here’s what you can generally expect.
Step 1: Initial consultation and fertility assessment
Your fertility team reviews your medical history, previous investigations and goals. You’ll discuss possible treatment options, expected costs, risks and the clinic’s outcome data.
Step 2: Ovarian stimulation
You take prescribed fertility medication to encourage several follicles to develop. Ultrasound scans and sometimes blood tests help the team monitor your response.
Step 3: Egg collection
When the follicles are ready, eggs are collected through a procedure performed under appropriate clinical supervision, usually with sedation or anaesthesia.
Step 4: Fertilisation in the laboratory
The eggs are combined with sperm, or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be used when clinically indicated. The embryology team monitors embryo development.
Step 5: Embryo transfer
An embryo may be transferred into the uterus, or suitable embryos may be frozen for transfer later. The timing depends on your clinical circumstances.
Step 6: Pregnancy testing and follow-up
Your clinic will advise when to take a pregnancy test and how to proceed based on the result. A positive test is followed by appropriate monitoring; a negative result may prompt a review of the cycle and next steps.
Not every IVF cycle reaches egg collection or embryo transfer. Your fertility team should explain the possible outcomes at each stage before treatment begins.
How Can You Improve Your Chances of IVF Success After 35?
No lifestyle change, supplement or special diet can reverse age-related egg ageing. However, taking care of your health and following an appropriate treatment plan can support your general wellbeing and preparation for pregnancy.
Seek fertility advice early
If you’re 35 or older and have been trying to conceive for six months without success, professional guidance is generally recommended. Seek advice sooner if you have irregular or absent periods, known endometriosis, previous pelvic surgery, recurrent pregnancy loss or a known sperm-related concern.
If you’re over 40, prompt evaluation is advisable rather than waiting several months before seeking help.
Follow an individualised treatment plan
IVF medication and treatment choices should be based on your test results and medical history. Don’t increase doses, stop prescribed medication or copy another patient’s treatment protocol without speaking to your fertility team.
Prepare for pregnancy with professional guidance
Your clinician may advise you on folic acid, existing medical conditions, prescribed medications, smoking, alcohol and other factors relevant to pregnancy. Recommendations should be tailored to your health needs.
Consider both partners’ fertility
A thorough evaluation includes male fertility where applicable. Identifying a sperm-related issue can help your specialist choose an appropriate treatment strategy.
Understand the clinic’s outcome figures
Ask about live-birth rates for patients in your age group using their own eggs, how the clinic defines success, and the likelihood of needing additional cycles. If donor eggs are being considered, ask how those outcomes differ and what the process involves.
Does IVF After 35 Increase the Risk of Miscarriage?
The risk of miscarriage increases with age, largely because chromosomal abnormalities in eggs and embryos become more common. IVF does not eliminate this age-related risk.
However, individual risk varies. Your medical history, previous pregnancy outcomes and treatment findings may all be relevant.
Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) may be discussed in selected circumstances. It assesses chromosome copy number in cells sampled from an embryo, but it cannot guarantee a baby or eliminate every genetic or pregnancy-related risk. Whether it is likely to help depends on the patient’s situation, and it is not automatically necessary for everyone over 35.
Your fertility specialist can explain the potential benefits, limitations, costs and alternatives before you decide.
Considering IVF After 35?
Take the next step towards understanding your fertility. Contact Doren Fertility Centre in Uyo to discuss your fertility concerns and explore treatment options suited to your needs.
Common Myths About IVF After 35
Myth 1: IVF stops working after 35
Fact: IVF can result in pregnancy after 35. Success rates generally decline with age, but 35 is not a fixed cutoff.
Myth 2: A normal AMH result guarantees IVF success
Fact: AMH can help predict ovarian response to stimulation, but it does not guarantee egg quality, embryo development or live birth.
Myth 3: IVF guarantees pregnancy if you use the best clinic
Fact: No responsible clinic can guarantee a successful pregnancy. Outcomes depend on several medical and treatment-related factors.
Myth 4: Only women need fertility tests
Fact: Fertility difficulties can involve female factors, male factors, both partners or causes that remain unexplained. Testing should reflect the circumstances of the people involved.
Myth 5: You should wait until you’ve tried every natural remedy
Fact: If you’re 35 or older, delaying an appropriate evaluation can mean losing time that may matter to your treatment options. Seek evidence-based advice rather than relying on unproven remedies.
When Should You See a Fertility Specialist in Uyo?
Consider arranging a fertility consultation if:
- You’re 35 or older and have been trying to conceive for six months without success.
- You’re over 40 and want to understand your options promptly.
- Your periods are irregular, absent or unusually different from your usual pattern.
- You’ve experienced recurrent pregnancy loss.
- You have a known reproductive condition, previous pelvic surgery or a suspected sperm-related issue.
- You’ve had unsuccessful fertility treatment and want a review before trying again.
You don’t need to wait until you’re certain that IVF is necessary. An evaluation can help clarify your options, which may include further investigation, timed intercourse, ovulation-related treatment, intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF.
For people living in Uyo and other parts of Akwa Ibom State, consulting a fertility specialist can help establish which investigations and treatment options are appropriate for their circumstances.
IVF After Age 35: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is 35 too old for IVF?
No. Many women have successful IVF treatment after 35. However, fertility and IVF outcomes generally decline with age, so an individual assessment can help clarify your options.
2. What is the IVF success rate after age 35?
There is no single success rate that applies to everyone. Outcomes vary by age group, egg source, medical history, clinic and whether success means pregnancy or live birth. Ask for figures that match your circumstances and the specific treatment stage.
3. Is IVF at 38 still worth considering?
It may be. IVF at 38 can result in pregnancy, but egg quality and ovarian response need to be considered. A fertility specialist can review your results and discuss realistic treatment options.
4. Can IVF work at 40 or older?
Yes, it can, although success using your own eggs generally declines with age. Depending on your circumstances and preferences, your specialist may discuss different treatment approaches, including donor eggs where available and appropriate.
5. Does low AMH mean I cannot get pregnant?
No. Low AMH can suggest a lower ovarian reserve and may indicate a reduced response to stimulation medication. It does not, by itself, prove that natural conception or IVF is impossible.
6. Should I go straight to IVF after 35?
Not necessarily. The best approach depends on how long you’ve been trying, your test results, the cause of infertility and your reproductive goals. An early evaluation helps you understand whether IVF or another option is suitable.
7. How many IVF cycles will I need after 35?
There is no reliable number for everyone. Some patients achieve a live birth after one cycle, while others need additional cycles or a change in treatment strategy. Your clinic can explain its outcome data and how it applies to your circumstances.
Conclusion: Take the Next Step with Doren Fertility Centre
If you’re considering IVF after age 35, you don’t have to make every decision at once. Start by understanding your fertility, reviewing any relevant medical history and speaking with a qualified fertility specialist about your options.
Age is an important part of the picture, but it isn’t the whole story. A personalised assessment can help you understand the factors affecting your chances, the treatments that may be appropriate and what to expect before starting a cycle.
Thinking about IVF in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State? Contact Doren Fertility Centre to enquire about fertility assessment and available treatment options. Get professional guidance based on your individual circumstances rather than assumptions about age alone.