Global study in The Lancet projects nearly 80 million women over 35 could face infertility by 2036, highlighting it as a public health issue

A new global study published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women's Health estimates that approximately 80 million women aged 35 to 49 worldwide could be living with infertility by 2036, a significant increase from 53.6 million in 2023. The research, which analyzed data from 204 countries, suggests that infertility is emerging as a broader public health challenge, driven by demographic shifts, delayed parenthood, and lifestyle factors, rather than solely biological aging. The study also raises concerns about the rapid commercialization of fertility care and the use of 'IVF add-ons' that lack robust scientific evidence.