It’s Never Too Late: Having A Baby In Your 40s
Should you get pregnant over 40? You might think this is no big deal. After all, a lot of women have done this successfully. We are surrounded by information on how to conceive in your 40s the normal way. But are these really true?
As a fertility specialist, I am in doubt about some of these claims. This is not to say that they are all wrong. I just want older women to know that they can still get pregnant over 40, but it may have consequences.
If you have willfully decided to delay pregnancy until you hit the big 4-0, then I could not honestly say what your prospects of getting pregnant are. All women are made differently. What is true for most may not necessarily be true for you. The same goes for fertility.
It is a fact that fertility diminishes rapidly once we hit our mid 30s. This fact has been borne out by several studies done on populations of women of different cultures who do not practice any form of contraception.
Although I could quote these fertility facts, keep in mind that these are just trends. In my practice, I have had several women in their 40s who successfully conceived and carried their pregnancies to term with no real difficulties. Some of these women were first time mothers. Although their pregnancies were monitored more closely than their younger counterparts, most of these women delivered healthy babies.
Can a woman get pregnant over 40 without need for ovulation induction? It is wise to assume that you still have sufficient ovarian reserve as long as you still experience regular, monthly menses. Ovulation may still occur, and pregnancy is still probable.
Are there natural ways to help one get pregnant over 40? There are hordes of vitamins and supplements available which claim to improve fertility. Some of the most commonly cited vitamins are the antioxidants A, C, and E. Antioxidants act by reversing or preventing damage wrought by free radicals, thereby retarding the aging process. These antioxidants slow down the effects of aging on the whole body, including our reproductive organs. Thus, it is assumed that they boost fertility and our chances of conceiving successfully.
Herbal supplements containing Vitex, Ginkgo biloba, and Siberian ginseng also claim to boost fertility. The effects of these herbs differ. Some are believed to improve blood circulation to the reproductive organs, thereby improving its overall health. Others are touted to exert direct influence on the levels of the hormone estrogen, thus inducing ovulation. Studies done on small populations of men and women given these herbs showed positive results.
Why do women choose to get pregnant over 40? Well, late motherhood has unique rewards. Women usually choose to postpone pregnancy until they have completed their personal and career goals. They wanted to gain financial security.
They may have delayed marriage and childbearing until they have achieved fulfillment in their chosen careers or personal lives. Some of these women have complicated childhood, thus they may want to work out all their issues and be emotionally mature before having children of their own. Or they simply may have met the right person to share parenthood with late in life.
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