We are in evolving times where the horizon of growth is open for all irrespective of gender. It is a really welcome move to see more and more women trying to excel in their career and juggle multiple roles at home and workplace. For at least a few women like us, a successful career happened at the cost of delaying pregnancy for a period of at least a few years.

These days 40 is considered the new 30. It is absolutely true when it comes to most of the aspects of life. 40 is an age by which many men and women become financially more stable as well as emotionally more mature, hence opening up ourselves to the endless possibilities life has to offer. But, unfortunately, this is not true, when it comes to fertility. In terms of fertility, 40 is not the new 30.

There is an entity called premature ovarian insufficiency, and it is REAL! 

Sadly it is becoming more and more prevalent these days.

What is premature ovarian insufficiency or poor ovarian reserve?

All females are born with almost a million eggs, this number keeps coming down every day. This drop in the number happens by a natural phenomenon, which keeps happening in all females irrespective of age, health status, or pregnancy status. It is just like a ticking clock. 

This rate of fall in the number of eggs becomes very fast after the age of 35. But in some people, this rate of fall is much faster than others. And their stock of eggs/ egg reserve comes down at a younger age.

rate of fall in the number of eggs with age

Why does this happen?

There is no clear explanation for this. Postulated theories are genetic and environmental factors causing this condition.

Are there any symptoms of this?

Many times it is totally asymptomatic. Sometimes, irregular cycles and short menstrual cycles(shortening of cycle length) may be present.

How to diagnose this?

Get your egg reserve tested by a trained fertility expert. Do this especially if you are planning to delay your pregnancy.

What are the solutions?

1. Early childbearing whenever feasible

2. Social egg freezing

3. Testing your egg reserve before deciding to delay childbearing

So friends, Is 40 really the new 30? 

I would be really happy if this article helps at least a few people in making important decisions in life. Please share your thoughts if it made you think. Pass on this information to at least one person whom you know, who may benefit from this.