Rising Ovarian Failure in 20s: What You Need to Know ?
The alarming rise in early ovarian failure, a condition where women experience significant depletion of their ovarian reserve at a young age, is drawing concern from gynaecologists across India. Traditionally, women’s fertility declines gradually as they age, with the reserve of eggs decreasing rapidly after 30 years. However, recent reports highlight a disturbing trend: a growing number of women in their 20s, even as young as 25, are facing diminished ovarian reserve, raising serious questions about the impact of modern lifestyles and societal changes on women’s reproductive health.
Dr Preethi Reddy, a consultant fertility specialist at Birthright Rainbow, explained that women are born with a finite number of eggs—about 2 million at birth. As they age, this number naturally declines, with a more pronounced drop after the age of 30. However, Dr Reddy noted, “We are now seeing a significant rise in cases where women in their 20s, between 25 and 33, are seeking fertility treatment due to reduced ovarian reserves. This is concerning, as about 30% of the women who come to us have problems conceiving because of early depletion of their egg reserves.”
While the precise cause behind the depletion of ovarian reserve in young women remains unclear, several factors are believed to contribute. Experts suggest that lifestyle changes, environmental pollution, and later marriages are among the primary culprits. However, an increasing number of cases have been attributed to early menarche—when girls begin menstruating at a younger age. Dr Patllola Rajini Reddy, superintendent at Petlaburj Government Maternity Hospital, pointed out that early onset of menstruation and ovulation may accelerate the depletion of ovarian reserve. “Girls are maturing as early as 8 to 11 years old, which has led to quicker depletion of their ovarian reserves,” Dr Reddy added. This phenomenon could be further compounded by urbanisation, changes in diet, and exposure to environmental pollutants, she noted.
Given these rising concerns, experts are now urging women to be proactive about their fertility health in their 20s. Dr Parinaz Parhar, regional medical head at Oasis Fertility, advocated for early fertility screening, especially for women with irregular menstrual cycles or those planning for delayed pregnancies. “Awareness of one’s fertility status can be crucial for women who wish to delay childbirth. In unmarried women, options like egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation) are highly effective in preserving fertility for the future,” said Dr Parhar. Egg freezing offers a vital strategy for women, particularly in a society where delayed marriages and childbearing have become more common.
This trend has also prompted healthcare professionals to push for more accessible fertility preservation methods. While the concept of egg freezing is gaining traction, it remains relatively costly and not widely available to all sections of society. In many cases, women have to opt for fertility treatments when ovarian failure is detected, which can be both emotionally and financially taxing. The need for greater awareness and support structures around women’s fertility health cannot be overstated, especially in urban settings where lifestyle-related health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent.
From a sustainability angle, addressing the growing fertility concerns can contribute to broader health and societal stability. As more women pursue higher education, careers, and delayed marriages, it is essential to consider fertility preservation options as part of the overall healthcare landscape. The focus should not only be on reactive measures but on proactive, accessible fertility health options for young women. Educating women about their reproductive health and offering solutions such as egg freezing could empower them to take control of their fertility in line with their personal and professional milestones.
In conclusion, while early ovarian failure in women under 30 may seem like a rare occurrence, its increasing prevalence signals a shift in how we view women’s health and fertility in modern society. As more women face these challenges, it is imperative for medical professionals, policymakers, and society at large to recognise the importance of fertility awareness and make fertility preservation options more accessible to all.
