Understanding Fertility Journeys

Many couples encounter difficulties when trying to conceive. While common perceptions suggest quick conception, the reality often differs. Dr. Oybek Rustamov, a Sydney fertility doctor, shares insights into typical conception timelines and challenges.

Australia's birth rate is projected to fall to a record low of 1.42 by 2025–26, which is below the replacement rate.

Conception Timelines and Age Factors

For healthy couples in their 20s, natural conception typically takes between six to twelve months with regular unprotected intercourse. A healthy couple in their early 30s has a 15-20% chance of conceiving naturally each cycle. These chances significantly decrease once the female partner reaches 35 years old.

For couples aged 40 to 44, the chances of natural conception each month are less than 5%. Egg quality and quantity decline with age in women. For men, sperm quality begins to decline in their late 30s, with a noticeable reduction after age 40.

Belinda Harbach, 29, shared her experience of struggling with fertility for years, noting the commonality of such challenges despite initial assumptions of easy conception. After four years of trying naturally, she and her husband conceived their daughter via IVF.

Fertility Treatment Options and Egg Freezing

Delaying seeking medical help is not advisable, especially for older individuals. Egg freezing is an option for future family planning, though it offers no guarantee of success. Freezing a sufficient number of eggs at an earlier age can increase the chances of pregnancy later.

Dr. Rustamov suggests that the ideal time for egg freezing is between 30 and 35 years of age. Freezing eggs too early might result in not needing them, while freezing too late can reduce success rates.

Success rates for egg freezing depend on several factors, including the individual's age and health at the time of freezing, the number of mature eggs retrieved, survival rates through freezing and thawing, successful fertilization, and embryo implantation. For instance, a 32-year-old woman freezing five eggs has an estimated 55% chance of a live birth, whereas a 38-year-old woman would need to freeze approximately 15 eggs for a similar chance due to age-related decline in egg quality.

When to Seek Fertility Advice

It is recommended to be proactive about fertility health at any age. Simple tests can be performed by a GP without requiring a specific period of trying to conceive. For women, these include a hormone blood test and an anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) test to estimate ovarian egg count. For men, a semen analysis evaluates sperm quality, concentration, motility, and morphology.

Lifestyle and Nutrition Impact on Fertility

Beyond age, diet, lifestyle, and exercise significantly influence fertility. Weight is a crucial factor for both partners. Obesity in men can reduce sperm count by up to 30% and is linked to erectile dysfunction and higher rates of DNA fragmentation in sperm. Both overweight and underweight women can experience difficulties conceiving due to impacts on their ovulatory cycle.

Regular exercise is advised. A Mediterranean-style diet, rich in good fats, fish, iron, fruits, and vegetables, may positively impact fertility. Essential vitamins include folic acid, antioxidants, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Smoking and vaping are detrimental to overall fertility, damaging ovaries and potentially leading to earlier menopause.

Recommendations for Seeking Help

Couples aged 35 or under who have been trying to conceive for 12 months or more are advised to seek medical assistance. For couples over 35, seeking help is recommended after six months or more of unsuccessful attempts.