Planning pregnancy? Senior doctor explains why women should think about fertility in their 20s instead of 30s

Your 20s aren’t for rushing into motherhood — but they are the best time to understand your fertility. (Image: Pexels)

In the world we inhabit today, women are juggling more possibilities and options than ever before. Careers, education, travel and personal growth usually dominate one in their 20s making fertility a secondary thought for another time. But as lifestyles change, so does the conversation about reproductive choices. And reproduction is not just a matter of becoming pregnant — it’s about being emotionally prepared, having the biology on one’s side and being able to participate in long-range planning.

But for a lot of women, the issue is still one that gets relegated to “when it feels right.” The early focus on fertility isn’t about panicking into motherhood but better knowing the body and reproductive choices and having more time to work through options.

Dr Samir Rao, a Delhi-based reproductive endocrinologist, thinks it’s awareness — not urgency. “Women often think conception will suddenly drop off a cliff at 35, but it actually starts declining in the late 20s and early 30s, just more quietly,”  he tells Moneycontrol.

Also Read: Common causes of infertility: How stress, diet, and sleep affect fertility in both men and women

He jots down reasons to believe why the 20s is the most amazing time of our lives.

-Biologically, fertility in the 20s is at its peak with both greater quantity and quality of eggs.

-By your early 30s, both decline more significantly and can impact chances of conception.

-Knowing this beforehand allows women to make an informed decision instead of a last-minute one.

-This is not an issue of age pressure: it’s one of biological consciousness.

Options increase in Your 20s

-If you plan in advance, there will not be any problem with future family options that need flexibility. It makes space for motherhood when you want, not when biology insists.

Reputation for Less Risk with Future Pregnancies

-Awareness at an earlier age helps women take decisions without running against these possible dangers. Learning enables the healthiest roads to parenthood through confidence and support.

Also Read: Boost fertility naturally: 9 things nobody told you about sperm and egg health before your 30s

You Can Master Career and Family Strategically

-Fertility information allows women to more accurately match personal and professional goals. It takes a little pressure off down the line, when career demands get more intense.

-A coherent plan of that sort creates equilibrium, not war.

FAQs on Egg Freezing

1. What is egg freezing?

Egg freezing is a process where a woman's eggs are extracted, frozen, and stored for future use. This allows women to preserve their fertility and use their eggs at a later date when they are ready to conceive.

2. When is the best time to freeze eggs?

The best time to freeze eggs is in your 20s and early 30s when the quantity and quality of eggs are at their peak. This increases the chances of successful conception in the future.

3. Is egg freezing safe?

Yes, egg freezing is a safe procedure with minimal risks. However, it's important to consult a specialist to understand the process and any potential risks involved.

4. How long can eggs be stored?

Eggs can be stored for several years, with some studies showing successful pregnancies from eggs frozen for over a decade.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.