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Updated: Jul 12, 2026
06:38
Determination of Reproductive Competence by Confirming Pubertal Onset and Performing a Fertility Assay in Mice and Rats
Published on: October 13, 2018
[Late fertility]
Ronit Haimov-Kochman1, Arye Hurwitz
1The Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Mt. Scopus, Jerusalem. Kochman@hadassah.org.il
Harefuah
|September 1, 2007
Summary
Later-life pregnancies pose significant risks to mothers and newborns. Fertility evaluations for women over 35 focus on ovarian reserve and oocyte quality, with limited treatment options available.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Context:
- Increasing trend of delayed childbirth due to social factors.
- Pregnancy in women over 35 is associated with elevated maternal and neonatal risks.
- Diminished ovarian reserve and reduced oocyte quality contribute to infertility in older women.
Purpose:
- To outline the risks associated with delayed childbearing.
- To describe the diagnostic methods for assessing fertility potential in older nulliparous women.
- To discuss the limited therapeutic options for infertility in this demographic.
Summary:
- Delayed childbearing increases risks for mother and neonate.
- Fertility assessment includes hormonal assays (FSH, estradiol), clomiphene citrate challenge test, and ovarian ultrasonography.
- A rapid fertility evaluation protocol is recommended for women over 35.
- Treatment for infertility in older women is primarily empirical, with ovum donation as a notable exception.
Impact:
- Highlights the critical need for fertility awareness among women delaying childbearing.
- Informs clinical practice regarding the evaluation and management of infertility in older women.
- Emphasizes the limitations of current treatments and the importance of ovum donation.
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