This stability in the age of access to assisted reproduction, close to 40 years, is not a fleeting trend but a consolidated reality. Data collected by IVI clinics show remarkable uniformity across the Spanish territory.
Cities like Barcelona show an average of 39.4 years, closely followed by Vigo with 39.3 and Madrid with 39. Other locations such as Valencia (38.7), Mallorca (38.6), and Bilbao (38.4) follow a similar trend, while Málaga and Almería register a slightly lower average of 37.5 years.
This pattern aligns with national demographic evolution, where the average age for the first child exceeds 31 years and the average age for maternity is over 32, among the highest in Europe. Factors such as extended academic training, late professional consolidation, job instability, and work-life balance difficulties have shifted maternity towards later stages of life.
Biologically, female fertility begins to decline more sharply after 35 years of age. This discrepancy between the social and biological calendars explains why a growing number of women resort to reproductive medicine at ages close to 40.
“"Two decades ago, most patients started treatments at significantly younger ages. Today, we see how maternity is integrated into broader and more complex life projects, and our role is to support this decision with the utmost scientific rigor and personalization."
Dr. González also highlights the clinical implications of delayed maternity. After 35 years of age, reproductive risks increase, such as lower ovarian reserve, poorer oocyte quality, and a higher probability of miscarriage and obstetric complications. Therefore, it is crucial for women to have adequate information to make timely decisions, and in many cases, fertility preservation is recommended if the desire to postpone maternity extends beyond 35 years.
