Why Age Matters in Fertility
Fertility is closely linked to biological age, especially in women, because both the quantity and quality of eggs decline over time.
- Peak Fertility: Late teens to late 20s
- Noticeable Decline: From age 35 onwards
- Significant Drop: After age 40
This decline happens because:
- Ovarian reserve (egg count) decreases naturally with age
- The rate of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs increases
- Hormonal fluctuations can disrupt regular ovulation
Hormones and Their Role in Reproduction
Hormones orchestrate every stage of the reproductive process, from egg maturation to embryo implantation.
Key fertility-related hormones include:
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) – Stimulates egg development; high levels may indicate low ovarian reserve.
- Luteinising Hormone (LH) – Triggers ovulation and supports early progesterone production.
- Oestradiol (E2) – Works with FSH to mature eggs; imbalances can affect cycle regularity.
- Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) – Indicates remaining egg quantity; stable throughout the menstrual cycle.
- Progesterone – Prepares and maintains the uterine lining for implantation.
- Thyroid Hormones (TSH, T4) – Imbalances can disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles.
How Age and Hormones Interact
- Under 35: Hormonal balance is generally stable, with regular ovulation in most women.
- 35–40: Subtle hormone shifts may cause irregular ovulation and gradual decline in egg quality.
- Over 40: AMH levels drop sharply, FSH rises significantly, and the risk of aneuploid embryos (chromosomally abnormal) increases.
Fertility Testing in Istanbul Clinics
Leading fertility centres in Istanbul offer comprehensive assessments that analyse both age-related factors and hormonal health.
Typical evaluations include:
- Blood tests for AMH, FSH, LH, Oestradiol
- Antral follicle count (AFC) via transvaginal ultrasound
- Thyroid function and prolactin level checks
- Hormonal monitoring throughout the menstrual cycle
These tests provide a clear fertility profile and guide personalised treatment plans.
Treatment Options to Optimise Fertility
1. Ovulation Induction
- Medications such as clomiphene citrate or gonadotropins stimulate egg production
- Beneficial for women with irregular cycles or anovulation
2. IVF with Hormonal Support
- Tailored stimulation protocols to maximise egg retrieval in women with low ovarian reserve
- May involve mild stimulation IVF or high-dose protocols depending on individual response
3. Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation)
- Recommended for women who want to preserve fertility before natural decline
- Best results when performed before age 35
4. Hormone Balancing
- Correcting thyroid disorders, PCOS-related imbalances, or luteal phase defects can restore ovulation and improve pregnancy chances
Male Hormones and Fertility
Age also affects male fertility:
- Testosterone levels gradually decline after age 40
- Sperm motility and morphology may worsen
- Istanbul clinics routinely perform male hormone panels alongside semen analysis for a complete fertility picture
Expert Insights from Istanbul Specialists
Istanbul’s top fertility experts emphasise:
- Early fertility assessment after 6 months of trying for women over 35
- Combining hormonal evaluation with lifestyle optimisation
- Using personalised IVF stimulation to counter age-related decline
- Offering integrated couple assessments for both partners simultaneously
Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is Power
Understanding the relationship between age, hormones, and fertility empowers couples to take proactive steps toward parenthood.
Whether you are:
- Trying to conceive naturally
- Considering IVF
- Preserving your fertility for the future
—early evaluation and expert guidance can make all the difference.
At the clinic of Assoc. Dr. Nurettin Türktekin, we specialise in age- and hormone-focused fertility care, combining advanced diagnostics, tailored treatments, and compassionate support for every stage of your journey.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation with our Istanbul-based fertility experts.
ISTANBUL / TURKEY
