Getting pregnant after age 40 is possible, but some women may face more challenges in conceiving than they would at an earlier age. Fertility declines significantly for several years before menopause. The She Knows website classifies ages 38 to 42 as the late reproductive stage. Reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Sigal Klipstein tells the Fertility Neighborhood website that fertility declines significantly beyond age 40. After this age, women have fewer remaining eggs, which makes it more difficult to conceive. They may also face poor embryo quality, which increases the risk of miscarriage. If you are not conceiving on your own at age 40, your odds of success may improve if you seek a doctor's assistance.
Step 1
Determine your level of follicle-stimulating hormone through a home fertility test or a blood test ordered by a doctor. This measures your remaining amount of ovarian reserve --- the quality and amount of eggs you have left. This affects your odds of conception and can predict if certain problems, such as recurrent miscarriages, are more likely.
Step 2
Consult your doctor, particularly if your FSH level is low. Your doctor can measure other hormones, such as luteinizing hormone, estradiol, progesterone and androgen. The results of these tests will help your doctor determine which medications you should take, if any, and which assisted reproductive technologies may increase your chances of conception.
Step 3
Consider and begin any fertility treatments recommended by your doctor. The approach recommended will vary based on your fertility and that of your partner. You may try in vitro fertilization if you have adequate eggs, whereas you might consider donor eggs if you have diminished ovarian reserve. If you are not ovulating, doctors may prescribe medications to induce ovulation.
