Rates of infertility are rising among women over 35

by Lancet

edited by Lisa Lock, reviewed by Andrew Zinin

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Rates of infertility and the need for fertility care are rising worldwide among women ages 35 to 49, according to a new analysis published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health. In 2023, about 53.6 million women in this age group were affected by infertility. The study authors also project that by 2036, the number could reach roughly 79.6 million. Care for these women can include fertility testing and assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

According to the study, Asia has the highest need for fertility care, while Australasia has the lowest. Although gaps between low- and high-income regions have narrowed, the burden is moving toward high-income settings, where women are more likely to delay pregnancy and pursue fertility testing and treatments. The authors say this shift reflects broader social and economic changes, including family planning later in adulthood and greater access to fertility services in some affluent areas.

To address rising demand, the study authors call for expanding and integrating fertility services into primary health care and reducing cost barriers associated with fertility care. They also highlight the potential of innovative delivery methods, such as mobile health tools, to offer equitable access to care and support for families worldwide.

More information

Yuanyuan Du et al, Epidemiological trends, disparities, and developmental correlates of infertility in women of advanced maternal age, 1990–2023: a comprehensive analysis within the GBD framework, The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health (2026). DOI: 10.1016/s3050-5038(26)00116-0

Key medical concepts

InfertilityFertilization in VitroAssisted Reproductive Technology

Clinical categories

Obstetrics & gynecologyReproductive healthWomen's healthPregnancy Provided by Lancet Who's behind this story?

Lisa Lock

BA art history, MA material culture. Former museum editor, paramedic, and transplant coordinator. Editing for Science X since 2021. Full profile →

Andrew Zinin

Master's in physics with research experience. Long-time science news enthusiast. Plays key role in Science X's editorial success. Full profile →

Citation: Rates of infertility are rising among women over 35 (2026, July 7) retrieved 7 July 2026 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-07-infertility-women.html This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.