Fertility Through the Decades: What Really Changes in Your 20s, 30s and 40s

We take a look decade by decade look at how fertility changes across your 20s, 30s and 40s. Dr Raelia explains why the 20s are considered the biological peak, with high egg number, high egg quality and fewer health conditions that can interfere with conception. She also unpacks why lifestyle choices, while always important, have comparatively less impact at this age due to stronger cellular health. For those not yet ready for parenthood, the discussion covers practical ways to protect future fertility, including STI prevention and why late 20s remain the optimal window for elective egg freezing. Moving into the 30s and 40s, the conversation explores how egg number, egg quality and natural conception rates gradually decline, why miscarriage becomes more common, and what this means for both natural conception and IVF success. Dr Raelia breaks down realistic expectations for each decade, when to seek specialist advice and how conditions like endometriosis often come to light in the 30s. The episode closes with grounded guidance for each age group, including the importance of not delaying parenthood unnecessarily, the role of genetic testing in IVF for women in their 40s and why men also experience age related fertility changes. Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast Join our community! Follow Women's Health Melbourne on Facebook and Instagram ( @womenshealthmelbourne ), and follow Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram ( @drraelialew ). Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email [email protected]. We keep all requests anonymous. Women's Health Melbourne is a holistic care precinct, for more information about the work we do click here . This episode is brought to you by Ellechemy - Lubricants and intimate care to meet your needs created by women's health authority and Gynaecologist Dr Raelia Lew Discount Code for 10% off and free shipping: KNOCKEDUP Website: ellechemy.com.au/ Instagram: @ellechemy.com.au Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi Morrison See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.