How to get Pregnant at 40 - Top Tips from a Fertility Consultant

As a fertility consultant with a passion for supporting women on their fertility journey, I'm here to share some of the best advice for women over 40 who are eager to get pregnant.

In the 1970s, the average age of first-time mothers in the United States was 21. Fast forward to 2020, and that average age had bumped up to 26 and rising. Why the shift? Well, studies point to career aspirations and financial considerations – let's face it, raising kids isn't exactly budget-friendly!

But here's the thing: while we may be delaying parenthood for various reasons, our bodies aren't necessarily on the same page. At The Pretrimester, we've noticed more and more patients, especially those over 40, coming to us with questions about conceiving later in life.

So, let's dive into some of the most common queries and offer some friendly advice for those eager to start a family at 40 or beyond.

Is it possible to get pregnant naturally at 40? Absolutely! Despite the natural decline in fertility as we age (which starts around 30), conception without fertility treatments is still on the table post-40. Although, let's keep in mind that the odds dip significantly compared to our younger years.

How many eggs does a woman have at 40? Well, it's a bit of a numbers game. When we're born, our ovaries are stocked with about a million eggs, but that inventory takes a nosedive as we age. Numbers can vary dramatically from woman to woman, depending on underlying medical conditions. But on average, by 40, we're looking at roughly 20,000 eggs. That's the biological clock, we're always hearing about.

Are my eggs bad after 40? Not necessarily, but the genetic lottery does tend to favor the younger crowd. At 25, about 75% of our eggs are in tip-top shape, but by 40, that number dwindles to around 20-30%. With this shift, miscarriage rates also increase.

Is Having a Baby at 40 Too Old? No, absolutely not! It is essential to recognize that pregnancy in your 40s can come with its own set of challenges. Consider scheduling a preconception visit to discuss personalized risks and strategies for a healthy pregnancy and to maximize your chances while shortening your timeline.

How long does it take to get pregnant at 40? Well, let's just say patience is key. While fertility peaks in our 20s, the chances of conceiving per cycle drop to around 5% by 40. That's why it's important to seek help sooner than later.

How do I improve fertility after age 40? There are plenty of ways to give your fertility a boost, from lifestyle tweaks to medical interventions. Focus on maintaining a healthy weight, ditch the bad habits, start eating nutrient-rich foods, and consider prenatal vitamins and supplements.

And if you haven't gotten pregnant after 40? Not to worry – fertility specialists are here to help. Consider a consultation to explore your options and chart the best course forward. Remember, you've got this!

With infertility rates rising globally, the pressure to start a family can feel overwhelming. At The Pretrimester, we provide personalized fertility consulting and preconception care to expedite your journey to motherhood. Feel confident and excited about becoming a mom by visiting our website, www.drlauracostello.com, and scheduling a free consult today.

- Dr. Laura Costello, The Pretrimester