If you’re considering IVF or starting to explore your fertility options, you’ll have lots of questions and that’s completely normal. From understanding what to expect, to wondering how your age, lifestyle or BMI might play a role, it’s good to have clarity.
Our team have broken down the most common IVF questions we’re asked by patients, helping you feel informed as you begin your journey.
Is there an age limit for IVF?
At Manchester Fertility, we treat patients up to the age of 50. With IVF or ICSI, you can use either your own eggs or donor eggs. However, if you’re over the age of 44, we would typically recommend treatment with donor eggs to help you have the best chance of pregnancy.
Our team will work together to determine the best approach for you based on your results from your fertility assessment. Your initial fertility tests will tell us more about your ovarian reserve (the number of eggs you have remaining) and help us make informed decisions for your personalised treatment plan.
What is the BMI limit for IVF?
We treat patients with a BMI between 19 and 35, as research has shown that a healthy BMI can support your fertility treatment and enhance your chance of conceiving. While BMI is not a perfect measure, as this healthy range can also be influenced by factors such as muscle mass and ethnic background, using BMI is the simplest and most accessible way to assess whether you are at a healthy weight.
Our fertility specialists will provide you with personalised advice and guidance to guide you through your treatment journey.
If you are unsure about your BMI, you can use an online calculator, such as the NHS BMI calculator, which allows you to include these additional factors.
Will my lifestyle affect whether IVF will work for me?
We’ve covered how BMI can affect your chances of IVF success, but other factors, such as smoking and alcohol intake also play a role and can affect fertility in both men and women.
Various studies have shown that alcohol intake and smoking can affect the chances of conception. And in men, excessive alcohol intake and smoking can decrease sperm count and motility and affect sperm shape and function.
We would advise that you, and your partner if they smoke too, should quit smoking at least three months before you start treatment. This is to ensure that your bodies are nicotine-free, which includes e-cigarettes, as they contain nicotine.
Is there anything I can do to improve my chances before I start IVF?
Living a healthy lifestyle in the months before you start fertility treatment can help to improve your IVF success.
Aim to eat a balanced diet that provides you with all the vitamins and minerals you need, including wholegrain carbs, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, and plenty of fruit and vegetables. Also, exercise is a great first step to maintain a healthy lifestyle. You can begin with frequent, short sessions and gradually build to longer ones.
Start fertility treatment at Manchester Fertility
Contact our friendly New Patient Coordinators on 0161 300 2737 or book a free 1-2-1 Discovery Appointment to learn more about what treatment options might be right for you.
Last updated: 2nd December 2025
