Wondering how age impacts your chances of getting pregnant through IVF? Discover the IVF success rate by age with UK-specific statistics, and learn what to consider when planning your fertility journey.
What Is IVF and Why Does Age Matter?
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is one of the most widely used fertility treatments in the UK and around the world. It involves combining eggs and sperm in a lab and transferring the resulting embryo to the uterus. However, when it comes to your chances of success, one factor stands out above all: age.
The IVF success rate by age plays a critical role in shaping treatment outcomes. As women get older, both egg quality and quantity decline—directly affecting fertility. Understanding how your age impacts IVF results can help you plan smarter, choose the right clinic, and manage your expectations realistically.
IVF Success Rate by Age: UK Statistics
According to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), age has the greatest influence on IVF outcomes. Below is a breakdown of live birth rates per embryo transferred in the UK:
IVF Success Rate by Age: Under 35
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Success rate per embryo transfer: ~32%
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Cumulative success after 3 IVF cycles: Over 60%
Women under 35 have the highest IVF success rates. This is largely due to better egg quality and ovarian reserve.
IVF Success Rate by Age: 35–37
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Success rate per embryo transfer: ~25%
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Cumulative success after 3 IVF cycles: ~50%
Although success rates decline slightly after 35, outcomes are still favourable, especially with good overall health.
IVF Success Rate by Age: 38–39
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Success rate per embryo transfer: ~19%
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Cumulative success after 3 IVF cycles: ~40%
Egg quality begins to decline more noticeably at this stage, and clinics may suggest advanced techniques like genetic screening.
IVF Success Rate by Age: 40–42
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Success rate per embryo transfer: ~11%
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Cumulative success after 3 IVF cycles: ~25–30%
Success rates drop sharply after 40, and additional support such as donor eggs or IVF add-ons may be considered.
IVF Success Rate by Age: 43–44
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Success rate per embryo transfer: ~5%
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Cumulative success after 3 IVF cycles: ~10–15%
Pregnancy at this age using your own eggs is challenging. Many patients explore options like donor eggs or adoption.
IVF Success Rate by Age: 45 and Over
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Success rate per embryo transfer: <2%
Live births using a woman’s own eggs at this age are extremely rare. Most successful IVF cycles at this age use donor eggs.
Why the IVF Success Rate by Age Declines
Understanding why the IVF success rate by age drops can help you make informed decisions:
1. Egg Quality
With age, the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs increases, which can lead to miscarriage or failed implantation.
2. Ovarian Reserve
The number of viable eggs in the ovaries decreases as you age, leading to fewer eggs retrieved during IVF.
3. Uterine Health
Although the uterus does not age as rapidly as eggs, older women are more likely to experience fibroids, scarring, or endometrial issues.
4. Male Factor Infertility
While not age-specific to women, it’s worth noting that male fertility also declines—sperm motility and morphology can worsen with age.
Planning IVF: What to Consider at Every Age
Regardless of your age, IVF requires planning and preparation. Here are key considerations to boost your chances of success:
1. Start Early
If you're under 35 and have been trying to conceive for a year (or six months if you're over 35), it's time to seek fertility advice. Earlier intervention can significantly improve your IVF success rate by age group.
2. Get a Fertility Workup
A complete fertility assessment includes tests for:
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AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) for ovarian reserve
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FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)
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Ultrasound scans
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Semen analysis for male partners
3. Choose the Right IVF Clinic
In the UK, clinic performance is regulated by the HFEA. Look for clinics with high IVF success rates for your specific age bracket. IVF Matters has great success rates for treatment!
4. Lifestyle Adjustments
To improve IVF success at any age:
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Maintain a healthy BMI (19–25)
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Avoid alcohol and smoking
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Reduce caffeine intake
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Manage stress
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Take prenatal supplements (especially folic acid)
5. Understand IVF Costs
IVF on the NHS is available in many parts of the UK, but access depends on location, age, and individual health factors. Private IVF can cost between £3,000–£8,000 per cycle, not including medication. Here at IVF Matters, we know that embarking on fertility treatment can be expensive, so we’ve partnered with some great organisations to support financing your treatment with payment plans to help you to spread the cost.
6. Consider Donor Eggs or Sperm
For older patients or those with significantly reduced fertility, donor eggs or sperm may offer a much higher success rate.
7. Emotional and Psychological Support
IVF can be emotionally taxing. Consider counselling or support groups, especially if facing multiple cycles or decisions about donor options. The counselling team here at IVF Matters are available to schedule supportive counselling throughout your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About IVF Success Rate by Age
Does IVF always work the first time?
No. Many people require multiple cycles. Younger patients generally have higher success in fewer cycles.
Can I freeze my eggs to improve my IVF success later?
Yes. Egg freezing at a younger age (ideally before 35), can preserve fertility and boost your chances when you're ready for IVF later.
Does using donor eggs improve IVF success rate by age?
Yes. Donor eggs, typically from younger women, significantly increase IVF success rates—especially for women over 40.
Final Thoughts: IVF Success Rate by Age Isn’t the Whole Story
While the IVF success rate by age is a critical factor, it’s not the only one. Your overall health, fertility diagnosis, lifestyle, and clinic choice also play vital roles.
If you’re considering IVF, it’s essential to start with a fertility health assessment and speak to a specialist early on. You can schedule a FREE Advisory Call with Dr Irfana Koita, here at IVF Matters, or choose to book a full first consultation to start your journey here with us.
By understanding your unique fertility profile and the realities of IVF success rates by age, you can take proactive steps toward growing your family and making your dreams a reality.
