Predictable increase in female reproductive window A simple model connecting age of reproduction, menopause, and longevity

With the ever-increasing lifespan along with societal changes, women can marry and procreate later than in previous centuries. However, pathogenic genetic variants segregating in the population can lead to female subfertility or infertility well before the average age of normal menopause, leading to counter-selection of such deleterious alleles. In reviewing this field, we speculate that a logical consequence would be the later occurrence of menopause and the extension of women's reproductive lifespan. We illustrate this point with a simple model that applies to other variants that contribute to female infertility, including epigenetic variation. We also consider the effect of medical interventions and lifestyle.

Automated summary

With the increasing lifespan and societal changes, women are now able to marry and have children later than in previous centuries. However, pathogenic genetic variants in the population can cause female subfertility or infertility before the average age of menopause, leading to counter-selection of these harmful alleles. It is speculated that as a logical consequence, menopause may occur later and women's reproductive lifespan may be extended. Factors such as medical interventions and lifestyle also play a role in female fertility.