What is fertility?

What does it mean to be fertile?

The word “fertile” simply means having the ability to reproduce. Fertility is the body’s biological capacity to become pregnant (for women) or to make someone pregnant (for men). Fertility is influenced by several factors including age, lifestyle, hormone balance, and health.

Fertility in men – sperm production throughout life

Men start producing sperm at puberty, and this usually continues throughout life. New sperm are constantly being formed, but:

• Sperm quality can decrease with age.
• After age 40, both sperm count and motility may be affected.
• Illnesses, smoking, obesity, and stress can also reduce fertility.

Despite this, many men can father children well into older age, but it may take longer.

Fertility in women – egg reserve decreases with age

Women are born with all the eggs they will ever have, which remain dormant in the ovaries. When menstruation starts during puberty, ovulation begins too, marking the start of a woman’s fertile period. However, female fertility has a clear biological limit:

• It is highest in the 20s and early 30s.
• Fertility drops noticeably after age 35.
• After age 40, it is often much more difficult to become pregnant.
• After menopause, natural pregnancy is no longer possible.

It’s important to remember that fertility is individual, some women become pregnant easily in their 40s, while others may need help much earlier.

Factors that influence fertility

Several lifestyle factors affect fertility in both women and men:

• Diet and nutrition – A nutrient-rich diet supports hormone balance and the reproductive system.
• Exercise – Regular, moderate physical activity is beneficial. However, excessive training can negatively affect fertility.
• Stress – High stress levels can disrupt hormonal balance.
• Tobacco, alcohol, and drugs – These substances can negatively impact both sperm and egg cells.
• Weight – Being over- or underweight can affect ovulation and sperm production.

When should you seek help?

If you have been trying to conceive for a year without success (or for six months if you are over 35), it may be time to contact a midwife or fertility clinic for an evaluation. There are many treatment options available, including hormone therapy, insemination, and IVF.