Around 186 million individuals worldwide are facing infertility issues. Explore key statistics and insights into reproductive health.

Fertility is the natural ability to conceive and bear children. While it varies across populations and individuals, fertility issues affect both men and women globally.

Recent studies estimate that approximately 186 million individuals face infertility challenges, leading to growing concerns about reproductive health, lifestyle factors, and medical interventions. 

Understanding the factors that influence fertility is essential for addressing these challenges and improving outcomes for those trying to conceive.

This article will explore key statistics, common fertility-related conditions, and expert insights into the latest fertility trends and treatments.

Medical Contributors to this Article


Expert 2
Dr. med. Dirk Wallmeier
Chief Medical Officer
As Chief Medical Officer, Dirk brings his profound expertise in reproductive medicine and gynaecological endocrinology to the forefront of patient care.

Key fertility statistics

  • Approximately 9% of men and 11% of women of reproductive age in the United States have experienced fertility problems.⁸
  • Over 8 million babies have been born via assisted reproductive technologies (ART) since the first IVF baby in 1978.¹⁸
  • Approximately 25% of all IVF pregnancies worldwide are twins or multiples.²⁶
  • Excessive alcohol consumption reduces fertility by up to 50% in both men and women.²⁹
  • Sperm banking is highly successful, with over 95% of sperm samples surviving the freezing and thawing processes.29

The global fertility rates and what it means for couples

The fertility rate varies significantly across regions, with cultural, economic, and healthcare factors contributing to these differences.

  • Global fertility rates have dropped from five births per woman in the 1960s to 2.4 in 2020.²
  • In sub-Saharan Africa, the fertility rate is 4.7 births per woman, the highest globally.²
  • Europe has the lowest fertility rate at 1.5 births per woman in 2020.²
  • Over 15% of couples worldwide face fertility issues, amounting to roughly 48.5 million couples.³
  • The global median age for first-time mothers is now 30 years old in many developed countries.⁴
  • Fertility rates in Asia have plummeted, with South Korea recording a rate of 0.9 births per woman in 2022.⁴
  • China’s fertility rate has dropped to 1.3 births per woman as of 2021.⁵
  • Japan’s fertility rate remains one of the lowest at 1.34 births per woman in 2022.⁵
  • Fertility trends in Latin America decreased from six children per woman in the 1960s to just 2.1 in 2020.⁶
  • It is projected that by 2100, 23 countries will see their populations halve due to low fertility rates.⁷

Global Fertility Rates Over Time

Global fertility rates are in decline, with cultural and socioeconomic factors playing a significant role, particularly in regions like Asia and Europe.

Identifying the causes of infertility

Infertility affects both men and women, and various health conditions and environmental factors contribute to it.

  • Approximately 9% of men and 11% of women of reproductive age in the United States have experienced fertility problems.⁸
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is responsible for about 70% of fertility problems in women experiencing ovulatory disorders.⁹

Dr. Jane Stewart - a Reproductive Endocrinologist, says, "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a leading cause of infertility in women. Managing PCOS through lifestyle changes and medical treatment can significantly improve fertility outcomes." 32

  • Endometriosis affects 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide, contributing to 30-50% of infertility cases.¹⁰
  • Male infertility contributes to 40-50% of infertility cases worldwide.¹¹
  • Smoking reduces fertility in women by 13%.¹²
  • Obesity increases the risk of infertility by 27% in women.¹³
  • Age-related infertility rises significantly after age 35, with only a 25% chance of pregnancy per cycle at age 35, declining to 5% by age 40.¹⁴
  • Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals like BPA (Bisphenol A) can decrease fertility by 20%.¹⁵
  • Genetic factors account for about 10% of male infertility.¹⁶
  • Studies show that stress and mental health conditions can reduce fertility by 10-15%. ¹⁷
Dr. Robert Katz - Infertility Specialist, "Male infertility is often underestimated, but it's a critical factor in approximately 40-50% of infertility cases. A comprehensive evaluation of both partners is essential for effective treatment."34

How Age Influences Infertility


Infertility is a multifaceted issue, with lifestyle, health conditions, and age being key contributors for both men and women.

Technological advancements impacting fertility

The rise of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) offers new solutions for individuals facing fertility challenges.

Dr. Alan Penzias - Director of Reproductive Medicine, "The success rates of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) have improved remarkably over the years due to advancements in technology and techniques. However, it's important for patients to have realistic expectations and understand that success rates vary based on several factors, including age and health conditions." 33

  • Over 8 million babies have been born via assisted reproductive technologies (ART) since the first IVF baby in 1978. ¹⁸
  • In vitro fertilisation (IVF) success rates have increased by 3% annually since 2000. ¹⁹
  • Around 30-40% of IVF cycles result in a live birth for women under 35 years old. ²⁰
  • The success rate of IVF for women aged 40-42 is around 10% per cycle. ²¹
  • Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A) reduces the risk of miscarriage by 30-50% during IVF. ²²
  • Frozen embryo transfer (FET) success rates are now equal to or higher than fresh embryo transfers, at about 50%. ²³
  • ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) accounts for over 75% of ART treatments globally. ²⁴
  • Egg freezing has grown in popularity, with a 23% increase in the procedure between 2019 and 2022. ²⁵
  • Approximately 25% of all IVF pregnancies worldwide are twins or multiples. ²⁶
  • Insurance coverage for fertility treatments varies widely, with only 16 U.S. states requiring insurance plans to cover ART. ²⁷

IVF Success Rates by Age

Fertility challenges are a growing global issue, highlighting the importance of understanding factors that impact reproductive health and exploring modern solutions for those facing infertility.

How our lifestyles impact fertility

Lifestyle choices are crucial in reproductive health, influencing both male and female fertility.

  • Regular physical exercise improves fertility by reducing stress and maintaining a healthy body weight.²⁸
  • Excessive alcohol consumption reduces fertility by up to 50% in both men and women. ²⁹
  • Caffeine intake over 300 mg daily is associated with a 27% decrease in fertility rates. ³⁰
  • A diet rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can enhance fertility by improving egg and sperm quality. ³¹
  • Smoking is linked to a 30% reduction in female fertility and a 20% decrease in male fertility. 22
  • Exposure to environmental pollutants, such as pesticides and heavy metals, is associated with a 10-15% decrease in fertility. 23
  • Obesity increases the risk of infertility due to hormonal imbalances and decreased egg quality.24
  • Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia can lead to amenorrhea (loss of menstruation) and infertility.25
  • Adequate sleep of 7-8 hours per night is associated with improved reproductive health and fertility.26
  • Stress management techniques, such as yoga and meditation, can improve fertility by reducing stress hormones.27

Lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise, and substance use, significantly impact fertility. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can improve reproductive outcomes and overall health.

Determining your fertility preservation options

Fertility preservation is an essential option for individuals facing medical treatments, ageing, or lifestyle choices that may impact future fertility.

  • Egg-freezing success rates are approximately 30% per thawed cycle for women under 35.28
  • Sperm banking is highly successful, with over 95% of sperm samples surviving the freezing and thawing processes.29
  • Embryo freezing success rates are similar to fresh embryo transfer rates, at about 50% per cycle.30
  • Fertility preservation options are increasingly available for cancer patients, with over 40% of oncology centres offering such services.31
  • Social egg freezing, intended for delaying motherhood, has seen a 30% annual increase in demand over the past decade.22
  • Men undergoing cancer treatment have the option to freeze sperm, with a success rate of 60% in preserving fertility.23
  • The average egg freezing and storage cost is $6,000 per cycle, with annual storage fees of around $500.24
  • Some health insurance plans now cover fertility preservation, but availability varies widely.25
  • Technological advances are improving fertility preservation success rates, with vitrification offering higher survival rates than older freezing methods.26
  • Over 1,000 babies are born annually in the U.S. from frozen embryos.27

How Often Are People Using Fertility Preservation Methods

Fertility preservation offers valuable options for individuals facing medical treatments or delaying parenthood, with advancements improving success rates and accessibility.

If you’re interested in fertility analysis and helpful treatments, book a free consultation with us.

Frequently asked questions

What factors affect fertility in men and women?

Various factors can affect fertility in both men and women. Age, health conditions (e.g., PCOS, endometriosis), lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, and stress, along with exposure to certain chemicals, are everyday influencers. In men, low sperm count and quality can also impact fertility. 28

How does age affect fertility?

Women experience a significant decline in fertility after the age of 35. The quality and quantity of eggs decrease, and the likelihood of successful conception and pregnancy to term diminishes. Men may also see a decline in sperm quality with age. 29

What are some common fertility treatments?

Common fertility treatments include medications to stimulate ovulation, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilisation (IVF), and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Egg freezing and sperm donation are also options for those needing assistance. 30

How effective is IVF?

The success rate of IVF depends on a variety of factors, including age, egg quality, and underlying fertility issues. For women under 35, the success rate per IVF cycle is approximately 30-40%. Success rates decline with age. 31

Sources

  1. World Health Organization
  2. United Nations, Population Division, 2020
  3. National Institutes of Health
  4. Guttmacher Institute, 2022
  5. World Bank, Fertility Data
  6. UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, 2021
  7. The Lancet, Global Health, 2020
  8. CDC, National Center for Health Statistics, 2022
  9. American Society for Reproductive Medicine
  10. Endometriosis Foundation of America
  11. WHO, Male Infertility Research
  12. Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences, 2021
  13. Obesity Reviews, 2020
  14. Mayo Clinic, Age and Fertility Report
  15. Environmental Health Perspectives, 2022
  16. National Library of Medicine
  17. Fertility and Sterility, Stress Impact on Fertility
  18. European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), 2018
  19. IVF Worldwide Data
  20. American Pregnancy Association, 2021
  21. Fertility and Sterility Journal, IVF Age Data
  22. Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, PGT-A Study
  23. Journal of Reproductive Medicine, Frozen Embryo Transfer Data
  24. Fertility Clinics Network
  25. Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, Egg Freezing Statistics
  26. Journal of Fertility and Sterility, 2020
  27. Insurance Coverage Report, IVF Access
  28. National Institutes of Health
  29. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2020
  30. Fertility Network UK
  31. Human Reproduction Journal, IVF Success Rates
  32. National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
  33. National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
  34. National Institute of Health (NIH)