What Is the “Biological Clock”, Anyway?

The term “biological clock” is often used to describe a woman’s fertility. But what in the world does it really mean? Essentially, it’s important to understand that it refers, basically, to the diminishing amount of viable eggs that she has in her body.

When a female is born, she has about two million eggs. That number never increases, so what she has is what her body will one day use to potentially conceive a child. But when a woman begins to menstruate, her number of eggs has already dropped by about four-fifths to 400,000 total eggs.

As the months and years progress, she will lose about 12,000 eggs annually. At that rate, she will have no eggs within 33 years or so from the onset of menses, which is the point where menopause takes over.

Of course, other factors are involved in what happens to her eggs. Illnesses and medical conditions can affect the strength and health of the eggs over time, sometimes leaving them unavailable for fertilization. For instance, chemotherapy and radiation for cancer can create female fertility issues. (This is why some women free their eggs prior to undergoing such types of treatments.)

Getting back to the “biological clock”, though, it’s critical for all women to realize that there’s no set time period. The aforementioned figures are only generalizations and statistics. That’s why it’s important not to make assumptions without medical assistance to back up theories.

At The Reproductive Science Institute (RSI) of Suburban Philadelphia, we’re here to answer any questions related to female fertility or other similar concerns. Give us a call today and set up an appointment to learn more about your personal situation.