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Fertility

Trying to conceive after 35

Fertility declines with age, more steeply after 35, because egg number and quality fall, but most women in their late thirties who conceive do so naturally. The key differences are acting sooner when things are not working and knowing your options.

Key points

The essentials at a glance.

What to look out for, who treats it, and what usually happens next.

  • Seek assessment after six months of trying (rather than a year) once you are 36 or older

  • Egg quantity and quality both decline with age; miscarriage risk rises for the same reason

  • A fertility MOT, hormone tests, AMH, ultrasound and semen analysis, gives an early picture of where you stand

  • Optimise the basics: folic acid, stopping smoking, moderating alcohol, healthy weight and well-timed intercourse

  • NHS IVF funding has age-related criteria that vary by area, so understanding local rules early is worthwhile

Understanding it

About Trying to conceive after 35.

Women are born with their full complement of eggs, and both the number and the chromosomal quality decline over time, gently through the early thirties and faster thereafter. In practical terms, monthly conception chances fall and miscarriage rates rise with age, yet plenty of 35-to-40-year-olds conceive without help; age shifts the odds rather than closing the door.

The sensible strategy after 35 is a shorter runway: try with good timing for six months, then investigate rather than wait. Assessment covers ovulation, ovarian reserve, tubal patency and semen quality, after which options range from targeted treatment of a specific problem to IUI, IVF or ICSI where indicated. In the UK you can start with your GP: on the NHS, a routine referral to a specialist clinic often means waiting 20–45 weeks or more to be seen, while a private consultant will typically see you within around two weeks, with any tests arranged soon after.

Frequently asked

Common questions about Trying to conceive after 35.

Quick, plain-English answers to what people ask us most.

  • What does trying to conceive after 35 involve?

    It refers to the process of attempting pregnancy at an age when natural fertility has begun to decline, requiring some extra awareness of timing, health optimisation, and when to seek help.

  • What causes reduced fertility after 35?

    Egg quantity and quality decline gradually with age, particularly accelerating after 35, reducing the chance of conception each cycle and slightly increasing the risk of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities.

  • What are signs that fertility assessment might be needed?

    Not conceiving after six months of regular unprotected intercourse (rather than the usual twelve months recommended under 35), irregular periods, or a history of pelvic conditions are reasons to seek earlier assessment.

  • Is trying to conceive after 35 risky?

    Pregnancy after 35 carries a somewhat higher risk of complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and chromosomal conditions, but the majority of pregnancies in this age group proceed successfully with good antenatal care.

  • Can fertility decline after 35 be reversed?

    The natural decline in egg quantity and quality can't be reversed, but options like fertility treatment, egg freezing (if done earlier), and optimising general health can improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.

  • How is fertility assessed at this age?

    Assessment typically includes blood tests for ovarian reserve (such as AMH), an ultrasound scan, and a semen analysis for the partner, to identify any factors that might be addressed or that indicate a need for fertility treatment.

  • How long should we try before seeking help?

    Current guidance suggests seeking a fertility assessment after six months of trying without success if you're over 35, compared to twelve months for those under 35.

  • Natural conception vs assisted reproduction after 35 - what's the difference?

    Natural conception remains possible for many, but chances decline each year after 35; assisted reproduction such as IVF can improve chances for some, particularly if there are additional fertility factors, and success rates are generally higher the earlier treatment is started.

  • What can improve chances of conceiving after 35?

    Maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, moderating alcohol, taking folic acid, and timing intercourse around ovulation can all help; addressing any underlying medical conditions promptly is also valuable.

  • When should I see a fertility specialist, and how quickly can I be seen privately?

    See a specialist after six months of trying without success if you're over 35. NHS fertility referral waits can be lengthy; private fertility clinics can often provide an initial assessment within about one to two weeks.