Having a child is a dream for many women, regardless of age. And often, life circumstances mean this dream has to be postponed over and over again until the moment you realize this is truly what you want.
There are also women who have other priorities throughout life, but who still haven’t given up on the dream of becoming a mother. The fact is, the number of women beginning to try to conceive later in life has been increasing more and more.
Whether because of cultural changes regarding the role of women in society in recent times or simply personal choice. But does trying to conceive at 40 bring challenges? What precautions should be taken? Are there risks? That’s exactly what we’ll discuss in today’s article.
What is Late Pregnancy?
Many doctors consider the ideal age for pregnancy to be between 20 and 30 years old, but many women are choosing to get pregnant after age 35, characterizing a late pregnancy.
However, it all depends on each woman’s health. As we mentioned, there are countless factors that can lead to this decision, such as the numerous contraceptive options available today, a personal search for financial stability, or enjoying adulthood in a different way.
The reality is that late pregnancy is becoming increasingly common, so it is very important to know that becoming pregnant at a certain age requires extra care, since the woman’s body is already entering a new phase.
Getting pregnant at this age becomes more difficult, and besides that, there are other potential issues during pregnancy, such as miscarriages, premature births and birth defects.
However, late pregnancy isn’t only about difficulties—there are many benefits to trying to conceive at 40. The most important thing is to get to know your body if you’re planning a late pregnancy. Talk to a specialist doctor. Do all the necessary tests and make the most of all the benefits and joys of pregnancy.
The Problem of Fertility at 40
It’s natural that as years go by, the number of eggs in a woman’s body decreases and their quality declines as well, since they age too. This directly affects the fertility process for women seeking to get pregnant later in life.
There isn’t a specific age when this starts to get harder, since it varies from woman to woman, but it’s known that after age 35 the chances of conceiving may start to drop.
Alongside this, the female body begins to undergo other changes, especially related to sex hormones, and the first signs of menopause can appear, making it even more challenging for women trying to conceive at 40.
Smoking, alcohol-related problems, and continuous use of certain medications can accelerate the process of infertility.
Harmful Factors of Pregnancy at 40
A woman’s age can be linked to various problems that might occur during pregnancy, such as high miscarriage and birth defect rates. There may also be complications for the mother’s health, like increased blood pressure, heart and lung diseases, and even gestational diabetes.
It’s worth emphasizing that all these are considered serious conditions during this period, regardless of age, and may require the pregnancy to be interrupted.
Women who choose and are able to get pregnant later in life need to have more intensive monitoring and take extra care, especially with their diet and daily activities.
Alternative Treatments
With declining fertility in older women, many seek alternative treatment options, which have become more effective thanks to advances in clinical technology and are increasingly sought after by couples facing difficulties conceiving.
One of the most recommended treatments is egg freezing. The younger the woman, the higher her chances of conceiving—this is because her eggs are younger and function better. So, if a woman decides to become pregnant later, she can freeze her young eggs, maintaining the same chances of conceiving when she decides it’s the right time.
This investment can cost more than ten thousand reais, but it may ensure successful fertilization years later.
For women who can’t afford the cost of egg freezing, it’s recommended to take special care of their health: quitting smoking, reducing stress, living a healthier life, and attending regular medical checkups are vital to increase the chances of conceiving at an older age.
Benefits of Late Pregnancy
It’s understood that women who try to conceive at 40 are more mature to face motherhood. There’s also a higher chance of having planned this moment, so they are more prepared not only financially but also psychologically.
The odds of postpartum depression tend to decrease with age, with the highest incidence occurring among women aged 15 to 25. Pregnancy, despite the challenges of age, tends to be calmer since older mothers are more mindful of the necessary care and thus tend to handle emotional ups and downs and all the bodily changes of this phase better.
So, the biggest benefit of late pregnancy is exactly the age and maturity of older women. Trying to conceive at 40 can be ideal.
Caring for Pregnancy at 40
As we mentioned, getting pregnant after 40 is not necessarily dangerous. There are many benefits, but it’s important to be aware of the risks and to be extra cautious.
Additionally, you need to take all the standard precautions during pregnancy, such as maintaining a balanced diet, doing physical activities appropriate for the pregnancy stage, avoiding strenuous exercise, and resting as necessary.
Older women in good health, who eat well, don’t smoke or drink, have a greater chance of having a smooth and problem-free pregnancy than a younger woman who does not maintain her health. This is important to note, as late pregnancy isn’t a problem—it just requires greater care.
The feeling of holding your baby is unique and indescribable, no matter your age. Of course, when you’re trying to conceive at 40, more care is needed and medical follow-up should be stricter, but the truth is it’s possible to get pregnant at this age and have your baby.
Research very well about all the risk factors and everything that might happen during your pregnancy if you’re 40 or older. It’s necessary to be realistic, understand that it won’t be that easy, and know the consequences this could bring both for your physical and mental health.
Don’t stop trying, but always be realistic and don’t rule out alternative treatments. That way, you’ll definitely be able to achieve this dream too.
See also: How I got pregnant after 3 years by Lidyane Melo
Photo: Camila Cordeiro
