Women under 35 years of age achieve the highest IVF success rates (40–55%) using their own eggs. Success begins to decline between 35–37 years (30–40%), drops to 20–30% at 38–40, and falls further to 10–15% or less above 40. Beyond 42, live birth chances with self-eggs are often below 5–10%. In India, the ART Regulation Act 2021 allows IVF up to age 50 (women), but medical effectiveness diminishes sharply after 40. Couples considering IVF can improve outcomes by exploring donor egg programs especially for women aged above 42, where success rates mirror the donor’s younger age rather than the recipient’s.
| Age Group | Success Rate |
|---|---|
| ≤ 35 | 40 – 55% |
| 35 – 37 | 30 – 40% |
| 38 – 40 | 20 – 30% |
| Above 40 | 10 – 15% (self‑eggs); <5% above 42 |
These figures reflect averages across reputable Indian fertility clinics
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) varies significantly with age. Women under 35 have the highest success rates, with live birth rates per IVF cycle using their own eggs:
Under 35 years: Approximately 37%
35–37 years: Approximately 30%
38–40 years: Approximately 20%
41–42 years: Approximately 10%
43–44 years: Approximately 4%
Over 44 years: Approximately 1%CDC
These statistics highlight the importance of age in IVF success. For more detailed information, you can visit the CDC's ART Success Rates page. CDC
IVF is most successful for women under the age of 35, with the highest live birth rates per cycle. As a woman’s age increases, IVF success rates significantly decline. Age is the strongest predictor of IVF success. Egg quality and ovarian reserve typically decline with age, particularly after 35 and rapidly after 40.After 35, success rates decrease steadily, and after 40, IVF is significantly less likely to result in pregnancy with one’s own eggs. If you are over 40, consider early consultation with a fertility specialist and discuss options like donor eggs. (https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/in-vitro-fertilization/about/pac-20384716)
The success of IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization) is most likely when performed in women under the age of 35. At this age, the chances of a live birth per IVF cycle can be as high as 40% to 50%, depending on individual health and the clinic’s success rate. As age increases, the quality and quantity of a woman’s eggs decline, leading to lower IVF success. For women between 35 to 37, the success rate drops to around 30%–35%, and for those above 40, it may fall below 15% per cycle. Therefore, fertility experts recommend starting IVF treatment earlier, ideally before 35, for the best outcomes.
You can read more in the official National ART & Surrogacy Portal by the Government of India, which provides trusted guidelines and age-related fertility facts:
National ART & Surrogacy Portal – Government of India
When it comes to IVF, age truly matters. Studies show that women under 35 have the highest chances of success around 45–50% per cycle, according to SART (Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology). This is because egg quality and ovarian reserve are generally better at a younger age.
Ages 35–37: Drops to about 30–35%
After 40: Falls sharply to 10% or even lower
In simple terms the younger you are, the higher your chances of success with IVF. As women age, egg quality and ovarian reserve decline, which directly affects IVF outcomes.
Your insights help others make informed choices. Don’t hesitate to share!
Which option do you think is more emotionally fulfilling?
01 August 2025