More women today are choosing to start a family later in life due to career goals, financial stability, or personal reasons. While pregnancy between the ages of 35 and 40 has become increasingly common, fertility experts say it’s important to understand how age can affect your chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy.
Sydney-based fertility specialist Dr. Maree Lee recently shared valuable insights on Instagram (May 26, 2026), highlighting the key factors women in this age group should consider before trying to conceive.
Don’t Wait a Full Year Before Seeking Help
Many women are advised to try for a baby naturally for 12 months before consulting a fertility specialist. However, according to Dr. Lee, that recommendation is generally meant for women under the age of 35.
For women between 35 and 40, experts recommend seeking medical advice if pregnancy has not occurred after six months of regular, unprotected intercourse. Early evaluation can help identify any underlying fertility issues and improve the chances of successful treatment if needed.
Considering Motherhood Later? Egg Freezing May Be an Option
Although social norms have changed, the biological process of ageing has not. Dr. Lee points out that both the number and quality of eggs decline more rapidly after the age of 35, which can make conception more challenging over time.
For women who are not yet ready to start a family but hope to have children in the future, egg freezing may be worth discussing with a fertility specialist. Eggs preserved at a younger age generally have a better chance of resulting in a successful pregnancy than eggs retrieved several years later.
Don’t Compare Your Fertility Journey With Celebrity Stories
Stories of celebrities becoming mothers in their late 30s or 40s can create the impression that age has little impact on fertility. However, Dr. Lee cautions against relying on individual success stories when making personal decisions.
While natural pregnancies after 40 do happen, they are less common, and fertility generally declines with age. Instead of comparing yourself with others, experts recommend getting your own fertility assessment to understand your individual reproductive health and pregnancy chances.
Don’t Ignore Symptoms That Could Affect Fertility
Many women experience symptoms such as irregular periods, heavy menstrual bleeding, or painful cycles and assume they are normal. According to Dr. Lee, these symptoms may sometimes indicate conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or hormonal disorders, all of which can affect fertility.
Getting these issues evaluated early may help identify treatable conditions before they interfere with your plans for pregnancy.
A Normal AMH Test Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story
The Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test is commonly used to estimate ovarian reserve, or the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. However, Dr. Lee emphasizes that AMH measures egg quantity—not egg quality.
As women move into their late 30s, egg quality becomes an increasingly important factor in fertility. This explains why some women with a normal AMH level may still experience difficulty conceiving.
Depending on individual circumstances, a fertility specialist may recommend lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, assisted reproductive treatments, or genetic testing of embryos during IVF to improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Key Takeaways for Women Planning Pregnancy After 35
If you’re considering having a baby between the ages of 35 and 40, experts recommend taking a proactive approach to your reproductive health:
- Seek fertility evaluation after six months of trying to conceive if pregnancy has not occurred.
- Consider egg freezing if you’re delaying motherhood.
- Don’t rely on celebrity pregnancy stories as a measure of your own fertility.
- Get persistent menstrual or reproductive symptoms evaluated without delay.
- Remember that AMH reflects egg reserve, not egg quality, so a normal result doesn’t guarantee fertility.
The Bottom Line
Pregnancy after 35 is increasingly common, and many women go on to have healthy pregnancies and babies. However, fertility naturally changes with age, making early planning and timely medical advice especially important.
Understanding your fertility, addressing any underlying health concerns, and consulting a qualified fertility specialist when needed can help you make informed decisions and improve your chances of a successful pregnancy.