A recent recent article in the Irish Independent highlighted two important fertility trends in Ireland. The first is the growing number of people seeking help with secondary infertility.

The second is the significant rise in births among women aged 45 and over.

Our Medical Director, Dr Ahmed Omar of Beacon CARE Fertility Dublin, contributed expert commentary and context for patients who may be experiencing fertility challenges.

Understanding the rise in older motherhood in Ireland

Across Dublin and nationwide, more women are having children later in life.

The latest figures from the Central Statistics Office show a record number of births among women aged 45 and over.

Dr Omar explained that advances in fertility care are a major contributor to this trend. He noted two developments in particular.

The first is IVF treatment using donor eggs from younger donors, which can offer a higher chance of success.

The second is egg freezing, which has become much more common in Ireland over the past five years.

By freezing eggs at a younger age, women can help preserve their fertility potential for future treatment.

The importance of age and egg quality

Although fertility treatment has progressed, Dr Omar emphasised that biology remains a central factor. From the age of 35, a woman’s egg quality typically declines at a faster pace.

Eggs are more likely to become chromosomally abnormal with age, which can make natural conception more difficult.

This is a key reason why women who had no difficulty conceiving their first child may experience challenges when trying again several years later.

Frozen embryo transfers are changing outcomes

Dr Omar also highlighted that improvements in freezing techniques have transformed treatment success.

More babies are now born from frozen embryo transfers than from fresh transfers.

This shift has opened new possibilities for patients. Women in their forties are increasingly using assisted reproduction to complete their families rather than to start them.

This differs from previous years when treatment was used mainly for first pregnancies.

Why secondary infertility is becoming more common

Secondary infertility is a frequent concern among patients at Beacon CARE Fertility Dublin.

Dr Omar noted that six out of ten couples seeking treatment today are facing this issue.

Many people now have their first child in their mid to late thirties. By the time they try for a second, they may be several years older.

Egg quality naturally decreases with age, particularly from the mid thirties onwards, which can make conception more difficult even for those who had no issues the first time.

Expert Advice.

If you are concerned about difficulty conceiving another baby, it may be helpful to speak with a fertility specialist. Early assessment can offer reassurance, clarity and a clear understanding of your options.

A specialist can review your medical history, discuss any factors that may have changed since your first pregnancy and outline a personalised plan for next steps.