Are you 40 and thinking of getting pregnant ?  It is common to delay  starting a family for reasons such as

• careers
• educational demands
• lack of financial stability
• second relationships

However, it is crucial to note that fertility in women decline with age. This is because as you grow, the number of eggs in the ovaries decreases. This decline in eggs may come earlier than most women expect.

You should also know that a woman’s period is usually a regular 26 to 35 days until late 30s to early 40s when her cycle starts to become shorter. Her period will become increasingly infrequent until it ultimately stops.  When a woman has not had menstrual period for a full year, she is said to be in menopause.

Women do not become fertile after  menopause. The average age for menopause is 51. However, most women are unable to conceive successfully sometime in their mid 40s. This is true for women in their mid 40s whether trying to conceive is through natural means or fertlity treatments such as invitro fertilization. As women age both the quality and quantity of  egg gradually decline.

Pro and cons of fertility after 40

There are advantages and disadvantages of conceiving at any age. Being older has the advantage of having a more secure career or more financial stability. It also gives you and your partner the chance to know each other well. This gives you a stronger foundation for raising your kids.

In general these mothers are well educated and make better parenting choices.

However, waiting this long to get  pregnant has its disadvantages. It becomes harder to get pregnant the older you get. You are also at increased risk of birth defects and chromosomal problems. This is because the quality and quantity of egg  declines  as you age.

Pregnancy complications is also concern for older women. They are at greater risk of developing diabetes and high blood pressure. They are more likely to have a miscarriage ,  babies with low birth weight, and experience preterm labor. Still birth is also a risk for older moms because of increased risk of high blood pressure and diabetes.

You should also note that sperm quality  deteriorates with age. Even though men in their 60s are still able to father children, the sperm  has a high rate of genetic defects than that of younger men.

Older women who are unable to get pregnancy have consider using donor eggs even though it is not talked about. With the new Assisted  Reproductive Technology available, there is a higher success rate for older moms who are having trouble getting pregnant.

What should i do if I’m in my 40s and want to get pregnant?

You need to discuss your concerns with your doctor. He will refer you to a fertility specialist if you don’t get pregnant for up to  6 months of frequent unprotected sex. You may also see a specialist if you have other problems such as ovulation issues , irregular periods or problems with your partners sperms.

The health care professional will examine you for any problems and advise you about your options depending on your circumstance.