Female fertility is full of surprising facts that many of us don’t realize until later in life, often when we start thinking about starting a family. One key fact is that women are born with all the eggs they will ever have. Unlike men, who continuously produce sperm, a woman’s ovarian reserve decreases over time. While this may seem shocking, it’s a natural part of our biological cycles.
How Does the Ovarian Reserve Work?
At birth, we have around 1 to 2 million eggs. By puberty, this number drops to around 300,000–400,000, and only about 400 eggs will mature and be released during ovulation cycles. As we age, the ovarian reserve continues to decline, reducing the chances of conceiving naturally.
Where Do the Eggs Come From?
Recent research suggests that new egg cells may be generated in the ovaries during adulthood, challenging the long-held belief that women cannot produce new eggs. While still under investigation, this theory opens up new perspectives on female reproductive biology.
Hormonal Balance: The Key to Fertility
Hormonal balance is crucial for healthy fertility. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) play vital roles in the menstrual cycle and the ability to conceive. When this balance is disrupted, getting pregnant can be more difficult, but it’s not impossible.
Real Challenges, Not Impossible Ones
Certain conditions can affect hormonal balance and fertility. Among the most common are:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A leading cause of infertility that affects ovulation.
- Endometriosis: A condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, making conception difficult.
- Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): When the ovaries stop functioning before age 40.
These diagnoses present real challenges, but they don’t make motherhood impossible. Advances in assisted reproduction offer effective solutions. Both PCOS and endometriosis can be managed with medical treatment and IVF techniques, making the dream of motherhood attainable.
About infertility…
Infertility affects millions worldwide, and while it’s not often openly discussed, it’s a significant part of female reproductive health. According to the WHO, 1 in 6 people faces fertility issues. It’s a challenge that affects both women and men equally, as the causes are shared.
Main Causes of Infertility in Women
- Ovulation Problems: Conditions like PCOS, affecting 5% to 10% of women, are a primary cause of infertility.
- Endometriosis: Affects 10% to 15% of women and can damage reproductive organs.
- Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): Affects 1% of women, limiting the ability to conceive when the ovaries stop functioning before age 40.
Unexplained Infertility and Combined Factors
In about 20% of cases, no clear cause for infertility is found, even after thorough testing. Sometimes, both partners may have minor issues that, combined, make conception difficult.
Genetic Anomalies: A Silent Factor
One lesser-known issue is the impact of genetic abnormalities in embryos. These alterations can lead to implantation failure and miscarriage. It’s estimated that up to 50% of embryos may have chromosomal anomalies, especially in women over 35, making conception more challenging. Fortunately, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can identify these issues and help select the healthiest embryos.
Fertility Preservation and Alternatives
Assisted reproduction has become a popular option for those who wish to preserve their fertility. Egg vitrification allows you to freeze eggs when they’re at their best quality, preserving them until you’re ready to become a mother.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the top choice for women struggling to conceive naturally. Global statistics show that IVF success rates range from 20% to 35% per cycle, depending on factors like age and embryo quality. Freezing eggs at a younger age greatly improves your chances.
There’s No Perfect Time to Become a Mom
Choosing to become a mother is a significant and personal decision. There is no “perfect” time, only a desire that deserves to be honored. Learning more about your body, taking care of your fertility, and exploring assisted reproduction treatments are key to making motherhood an option whenever you’re ready.
No need to rush, but don’t give up on the dream of becoming a mom! Science is on your side, and with modern technology, many obstacles can be overcome. Your desire to become a mother is valid and worth supporting!
Visit Nascere
Whether you’ve decided to become a mom or are planning your future family, we invite you to visit Nascere to evaluate your fertility and health. Whether through egg preservation or assisted reproduction, we are here to help you achieve success.
At Nascere, we have the strategy to help you build the family you’ve always dreamed of. The most important step is a clear, precise diagnosis of why pregnancy hasn’t occurred yet. With that, we can define the treatment that’s right for you. We handle everything from simpler cases requiring ovarian stimulation to more complex cases where in vitro fertilization can lead to a 75% chance of success on the first attempt.