Survey reveals three key insights:

• 40% plan pregnancy between 28–32, but many lack clarity on fertility timelines
• AMH emerges as the new BMI, though 65% remain unaware of this fertility marker
• 56% have heard of egg freezing, but awareness and understanding remain low

A reproductive health survey on Gen Z Insights, conducted across metros and tier-1 cities in India by Motherhood Hospitals and Nova IVF Fertility, polled over 200+ Gen Z women aged 23–30 from diverse professional backgrounds, has revealed that over half of India’s Gen Z women believe fertility declines significantly after 35. The findings reveal how India’s Gen Z women perceive reproductive health, timelines, and fertility options. While over half agree that fertility decreases significantly after 35, 41% rely on social media as their primary source of reproductive health information.

The Fertility Awareness Survey: Gen Z Insights, polled between 23 and 30, found that:

Fertility and Timelines

Just like their financial health, GenZs are looking at a more planned approach to parenthood, and 40% plan to start trying for pregnancy between ages 28–32.  25% of women mostly asked about fertility timelines and pregnancy, highlighting age as a key parameter to fertility. When questioned on queries to a fertility specialist, they were primarily on ‘right age to become pregnant’, ‘risks of getting pregnant in late 30s’. 15-20% women also have a lack of clarity on the term biological clock.

AMH is the new BMI

35% are aware of AMH, a key fertility health marker for women, and 10% have even done an AMH test.  Anti-Müllerian Hormone, present in the ovaries, indicates the egg quantity in women. It can be understood through a simple blood test. While 65% are unaware of this marker, this reflects a need for greater awareness of fertility health.

Egg Freezing

56% have emphasised that they have heard about egg freezing, but they do not know enough about it. While 10% would like to consider this option, due to other priorities in life, such as financial stability, career goals, traveling the world, and haven’t found the right partner. Social media has been discussing taboo topics like sexual health, menstrual health, and gynecological issues; even in the case of reproductive health, it seems to be the primary source of information.

Fertility Specialists are observing a rise in PCOS and obesity. There is also a rising trend in delayed marriage and parenthood. Experts emphasise preventative fertility care.

Dr. Sharvari Mundhe, Consultant- Fertility Specialist at Motherhood Hospitals, Sarjapur, Bengaluru, said,” The survey also suggests that 20% of women are diagnosed with conditions like PCOS, thyroid, and Endometriosis and are still not concerned about seeking medical help. Lifestyle also plays a very important role in fertility health, just like heart health. One needs to be aware of the lifestyle, it’s not just about consumption of processed foods, alcohol, or smoking; it’s also about following fad diets and consuming supplements without a prescription. There is a need for fertility awareness from a preventative care perspective. While egg freezing can be a viable option, awareness about when and why to consider it is still low.

Dr. Rashmi Niphadkar, Fertility Specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Pune, added, “Gradually, there is awareness on age and fertility. Reports suggest that Indian women’s ovaries age six years faster compared to Caucasian women, and we are observing AMH decline in women in their late 20s and early 30s.  The survey mentions that 65% women are unaware of the fertility health marker, AMH, as well. Fertility decline is gradual, but the most significant drop occurs after 35. By making fertility testing as routine as a preventive health check, we can help young women make informed reproductive choices and empower them. We are also observing an increase in egg freezing queries, particularly for social reasons. This is a welcome change; however, it is important for them to know the right age to freeze their eggs.

Falling Fertility Rate and call to action for Policymakers and Corporate India

With India’s falling fertility rate and the decline being observed among most of the states, there is a need for proactive action from the policymakers and Corporate India. The survey also mentions that while 27% are looking to postpone parenthood due to various reasons, such as financial readiness, it highlights the need for widespread corporate India coverage for fertility and egg freezing benefits.

Rise of DINKS

18% Gen Z women have taken a stance on not having children. There is a louder conversation on being childfree, and women today strongly believe childbearing is a choice and not a compulsion.

Fertility impacts both the gender

While this survey focused on fertility health awareness among GenZ working women, infertility impacts both genders equally, and today, male infertility is an equal contributor to a couple’s infertility issues.