The number of healthy (chromosomally normal) eggs you produce declines as you get older, especially after the age of 36. The number of eggs available to go through the maturing process may be even lower if you have a family history of premature menopause, or need to undergo chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

As you get older, chromosomal errors occur more frequently in your eggs, resulting in more abnormal embryos that may not implant, or that result in early pregnancy loss.

Women can help protect their fertility from the natural aging process by leading a healthy lifestyle. It is important not to smoke, to avoid alcohol and caffeine intake, to have a regular exercise regimen, and maintain a healthy weight range.

Due to the aging process, there is only so much that can be done, and the most important factor is to have a baby at an early age whenever possible.

The risk of pregnancy complications increases with age too.

The risk of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus increases significantly from age 35. Complications such as gestational diabetes, placenta previa (when the placenta covers all or part of the cervix, which increases the risk that the placenta will detach), cesarean section, and stillbirth are also more common among older than younger women.