Navigating the Later Years of Fertility
Getting pregnant after 35 is becoming increasingly common as women delay childbirth for various reasons, including career advancements, personal goals, or simply a desire to wait. While there are unique challenges associated with later pregnancies, it’s important to understand that it’s still entirely possible to conceive and have a healthy baby at this age, and our team is here to help you understand your options.
Understanding Fertility Changes
First, you may be wondering why getting pregnant after age 35 can be more difficult. As women age, their fertility naturally declines due to a decrease in the quality and quantity of eggs, which sometimes results in an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities. However, it’s crucial to remember that many women have healthy pregnancies and babies at 35 and beyond!
Tips for Increasing Fertility:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or underweight can affect fertility. Aim for a healthy lifestyle!
- Eat a balanced diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can improve overall health and fertility.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine: Excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption can reduce fertility.
- Manage stress: High levels of stress can negatively impact fertility. Consider relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
- Consider prenatal vitamins: Even before conception, taking prenatal vitamins can help prepare your body for pregnancy.
- Seek help from a fertility expert: If you’re having difficulty conceiving, consult with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your fertility and recommend appropriate treatments for you. Currently, ASRM (American Society for Reproductive Medicine) recommends that women aged 35 years or older who have been trying to conceive for over 6 months should seek a consultation with a fertility doctor.
Common Fertility Treatments:
Two of the most common fertility treatments for women 35 years of age or older are Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and In vitro fertilization (IVF).
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI): This procedure involves injecting sperm directly into the uterus. This can be used with sperm from your partner or from a donor.
- In vitro fertilization (IVF): This involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory and then transferring the embryos into the uterus. IVF is an extremely successful treatment option and allows women to freeze healthy embryos to conceive another pregnancy in the future.
These treatments are shown to have a high success rate for many women. Ultimately, it’s up to you and your physician to determine the best treatment option for you.
Beyond Conception:
Once pregnant, it’s essential to receive regular prenatal care. Typically, your fertility doctor will continue to care for you throughout your early pregnancy until you are over 8 weeks’ gestation. Once you reach the 8-week pregnant point, you can typically “graduate” to seeing your OB/GYN! From there, your OB/GYN provider can monitor your pregnancy, address any concerns, and continue to partner with you through delivery and postpartum.
Planning For Success
By understanding the changes in fertility, making healthy lifestyle choices, and seeking appropriate medical guidance, you can increase your chances of conceiving and having a healthy baby. Remember, every woman’s journey is unique, and with patience and perseverance, you can achieve your goal of becoming a mother.