While one in four women in their 20s and 30s will become pregnant during a menstrual cycle, that number drops to one in ten by age 40. Thus, pregnancy within a year in your 40s is 44% likely.
Your ovaries produce fewer eggs as you age, and you run a higher risk of fertility-affecting disorders. Fertility may also drop in the sperm-producing parent, hindering a late pregnancy.
Nevertheless, it is 100% possible to have a healthy baby in your 40s. Getting pregnant at this age is considered a late pregnancy, and more women are doing it successfully today than ever before.
Some women even have “menopause babies,” which are children conceived during the phase of a woman’s life when ovaries stop making eggs (perimenopause).
Health Risks of a Late Pregnancy
The birthrate among women aged 40–44 has risen steadily since the 1990s. Still, it is essential to consider the other risks of getting pregnant in your 40s that could affect you and your unborn child.
Many people are aware that older maternal age increases the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and miscarriage. But other health issues are also possible.
Preeclampsia
This condition is characterized by high blood pressure and symptoms of organ damage during pregnancy. Medical professionals must treat this immediately to prevent complications for you and your unborn child.
Gestational Diabetes
This health issue occurs when a woman develops diabetes while pregnant. Unfortunately, high blood sugar can harm your baby and jeopardize your pregnancy.
C-Section
The need for a C-section becomes more common as you get older.
Placenta Previa and the Need for a Blood Transfusion
Placenta previa occurs when your baby’s placenta partially or completely covers your cervix. This condition increases bleeding during pregnancy and delivery.
If you bleed too much, you will need a blood transfusion. This procedure could save your life, but complications are possible.
Macrosomia
Macrosomia is when your baby is born with a higher birth weight than usual. It can make delivery more challenging.
Getting Pregnant Later in Life is OK with Good Prenatal Care
Pregnancy after age 40 does pose additional risks, but most women can have healthy newborns with the correct prenatal care. Every pregnant woman needs prenatal care, but you may need more in your 40s.
Furthermore, you may need the help of a fertility clinic that offers treatments like in vitro fertilization or donor eggs to get pregnant. At Neway Fertility, we provide several fertility treatments.
If you want to start a family later in life, schedule an evaluation of your fertility immediately. Together, we can review your health and desires to develop the best action plan for growing your family.
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