Doctor reveals the best age for women to get pregnant: 'backed by science'

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): In a recent podcast episode Dr. Nandita Palshetkar, a renowned gynecologist specializing in infertility and IVF, shared valuable insights on conception, fertility struggles and societal pressures surrounding motherhood. When asked about the ideal age for women to get pregnant Dr. Palshetkar emphasized the importance of age, citing scientific evidence. According to Dr. Palshetkar, 28 is the ideal age for women to get pregnant as egg quality and quantity begin to decline after this age. However, she acknowledges that in today's world, 35 is a more practical age for many women. Dr. Palshetkar stresses that age is crucial for women and waiting too long can increase the risk of fertility issues.

But what does science say? Studies suggest that:

- 30.5 is the optimal age for a first child, according to a 2002 study.

- The average age of first-time mothers is nearly 27, as per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

- Birth rates have increased among women in their 30s and decreased among those in their 20s, according to a 2016 study.

- Younger mothers tend to have healthier babies, with lower risks of pregnancy complications.

- Waiting until 40 or older to have a last or only child may reduce the risk of uterine cancer. Ultimately, the best age for a woman to get pregnant is when she is physically, emotionally, and financially ready to become a mother. While age is an important factor, individual circumstances and medical advice should always be considered.