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A woman's chances of getting pregnant start to fall in her early to mid-30s and fall quite a lot over the age of 40. This may be because she isn't ovulating so often. Also as you get older your eggs change in quality. They may be more difficult to fertilize. And problems such as blocked tubes and endometriosis are more common in older women.¹

Both eggs and sperm are more likely to have defects as couples get older. This can increase your chances of miscarriage.

Nowadays, it's quite common for women to start trying for a baby at an older age. Couples tend to get together or marry at a later age, and may not be ready to start a family until the woman is in her mid-30s or older.

That's one of the reasons why more couples are seeking help for infertility. Being older may make it harder to get pregnant. But it doesn't mean it can't happen.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.