Tik tok, there's your biological clock

25 and still single, 30 and not married yet, 35 and no kids yet? Deadlines that absolutely no one enjoys. But unfortunately, they're an unwritten rule in society. Are they really necessary? Should we have children before a certain age, for example, because of our biological clock?

Let's start by saying that you should never, ever move in together "rushed" just because you have to have a child "on time," simply because society expects it of us. You determine your own path, at your own pace. That being said...

So what about our biological clock? ⏰

Okay. We're not going to sugarcoat it. Our biological clock definitely exists. We're talking about the age at which a woman can get pregnant relatively quickly and spontaneously.

The chance of a spontaneous pregnancy decreases after the age of 35. But that doesn't mean you can't get pregnant after 35. With the help of modern techniques like egg freezing and IVF, many women still have a chance of a healthy pregnancy.

First things first: How many eggs do I have?

You're born with all the eggs you'll ever have (namely, one to two million immature eggs). From then on, a number of eggs die every day. But don't panic, you still have about 300,000 to 500,000 left at the beginning of your reproductive phase, which begins when you get your first period.

Your eggs only begin to mature when you have your first period. During your fertile period, a total of approximately 400 eggs develop.

You're most fertile in your twenties and thirties. The quantity and quality of your eggs gradually decline from the time you turn 30, and from 35 onward, the decline accelerates.

What happens during your reproductive years?

During your reproductive years, approximately ten follicles grow per ovary each month. Only one egg matures fully. And only this egg will embark on the great adventure of ovulation. The other mature eggs, unfortunately, die.

What happens to your eggs when you take the pill?

Hormonal contraceptive methods (such as the pill, vaginal ring, or the hormonal IUD) suppress ovulation. This means that while eggs mature in your ovaries, none reach full maturity and are released from the ovary for fertilization. These matured eggs do not survive. They die and are then absorbed by the body.

So no extra supply when you take the pill.

Healthy eating habits for healthy eggs

Some studies show that your diet can play a role in maintaining egg quality. Therefore, the quality of a woman's egg significantly impacts the baby's health. But egg health is also very important for women who don't want to have children.

The healthier your egg and follicle, the better your body can produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone. These are important for a healthy menstrual cycle.

Healthy fats

We already mentioned it briefly. Eating healthy can help keep your eggs healthy. Healthy fats (omega-3) are especially important.

Studies have shown that eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help improve the quality of your eggs. To maintain egg quality, eat plenty of healthy fats.

Healthy fats are fats with a high percentage of unsaturated fat and a low percentage of saturated fat . They contain sufficient omega-3 fatty acids and little omega-6 (which you already get enough of with a normal diet).

In addition, omega-3, like magnesium, is also important for your progesterone levels. Progesterone is one of the most important hormones for a healthy pregnancy. Progesterone production after fertilization is incredibly important. It prevents your body from rejecting the embryo, ensures the uterus remains in optimal condition, and stimulates mammary gland growth.

Also read: A healthy cycle and pregnancy thanks to Guud Woman .

Where can you find healthy fats and how much should you eat to keep your eggs healthy?

You'll find healthy fats in oily fish (salmon, herring, mackerel, and sardines, also known as omega-3 fatty acids). Not a fan of fish?

You can also find omega-3 in nuts, avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, pumpkin seed oil, hemp oil, and walnut oil. Organic eggs also contain healthy fats. Replenish your reserves further with a high-quality supplement based on algae oil.

You need about 80 grams of healthy fats per day.

Some examples of healthy fats in grams:

• One tablespoon of olive oil: 13.5 grams
• One avocado: 30 grams
• 20 almonds: 10 grams
• A portion of salmon: 15 grams

Want to learn more about egg quality? We're fans of the book "It Starts with the Egg ," by Rebecca Fett.

Egg freezing? A good idea?

Are you over 30 and haven't yet decided to have children or found the right partner? Then freezing your eggs can be a decision that can give you peace of mind. It never offers 100% certainty, but it can certainly be an option. If you think freezing your eggs might be an option for you, we recommend consulting your gynecologist for more information.

If you freeze your eggs, you prevent their aging and maintain stable quality. And you won't have a biological clock breathing down your neck.

Egg freezing is often not covered by insurance. The cost of egg freezing is roughly the same as the cost of IVF.

Finally

Uncertainty is killing you. So if you have any doubts or questions about your fertility future, find the information you need. Talk to your doctor, read books, or chat with us .

Still feeling the pressure to have kids quickly? Remember, it's not just about your age. Your physiology, lifestyle, and your partner all play a major role. So don't let yourself get carried away!

Have any questions? Let us know. We'd love to help you become the best version of yourself. With our supportive range of supplements for women, you'll feel confident. Every day of the month.