Other factors impacting fertility

PRECONCEPTION HEALTH

OTHER FACTORS IMPACTING FERTILITY

Key things to know

Many things can affect fertility and a woman’s health during pregnancy.
Factors such as age, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and environmental influences can all play a role.
Optimising mental health before the baby bump is also important for supporting a healthy pregnancy.
Visiting a GP can provide personalised advice that considers your individual needs and lifestyle.

The ability to conceive and the health of the baby at birth and later in life are affected by a number of factors, including;

Age – Even with advances like IVF, fertility decreases as maternal age increases.
Environmental factors – Exposure to certain chemicals can reduce the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Mental health – Symptoms of depression and anxiety can affect wellbeing during pregnancy and post-birth.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – A hormonal condition that can cause irregular periods and difficulties getting pregnant.

Age

Despite advances in assisted reproductive technology, such as IVF, a woman’s chance of conceiving naturally decreases with maternal age.

For couples who may be experiencing difficulties with fertility, a General Practitioner (GP) is the best first point of contact. A GP can assess both partners’ health, arrange relevant investigations, provide guidance on fertility optimisation, and refer to specialists or fertility services if needed.

Having a Baby After 35: How Aging Affects Fertility and Pregnancy

Environmental toxins

Certain chemicals and environmental toxins can affect reproductive health and reduce the chance of becoming pregnant. These may include heavy metals, pesticides, and air pollutants. Exposure to these substances can impact fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and healthy foetal development.

Reducing or avoiding exposure to specific environmental toxins is important for both parents. If you have concerns, discuss them with your GP who can provide tailored advice.

Mental health

The idea of trying for a baby can be exciting, but it can also bring out stress, anxiety or even symptoms of depression for individuals or couples.

For support, access Lifeline’s Support Toolkit to find services that can help you manage stress and support mental wellbeing.

PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition affecting women in their reproductive years, occurring in around 1 in 7 women. It is primarily due to a hormonal imbalance rather than a disease of the ovaries. This imbalance can cause irregular periods, changes in skin and hair, and for some women, difficulties getting pregnant.

While the exact causes of PCOS are not fully understood, genetics, hormones present during development in the womb, and lifestyle factors all play a role. Managing hormone levels through a healthy diet and regular exercise can improve the chance of pregnancy.

If you have concerns, talk to your GP to investigate PCOS. Diagnosis can involve blood tests and an ultrasound if needed.

View this PCOS fact sheet for more detailed information about treatment options.

Use AskPCOS – an app created by Monash University dedicated to providing evidence-based information about PCOS. It provides information for people with or without a diagnosis about the condition, has a symptom tracker and provides information on how to manage PCOS.

Jean Hailes for Women’s Health is a not-for-profit Australian health promotion organisation that provides evidence-based PCOS information.

The Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation website provides a comprehensive range of information for women with PCOS and health professionals.

Other resources

Ovulation Calculator

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