10 Worries and Doubts Women Face When Trying to Conceive Over 40
Posted by kerry dibble on
As women venture into their 40s, the already nerve wracking decision to conceive can be accompanied by a plethora of unique new worries and doubts, such as (but not limited to)...
1. Diminished Fertility.
A primary concern for women over 40 is the natural decline in fertility. Age-related changes in ovarian function and egg quality can make conception more challenging, leading to worries about the feasibility of achieving a successful pregnancy.
2. Increased Risk of Pregnancy Complications.
With advancing age, the risk of pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and chromosomal abnormalities, becomes more prominent. These concerns can cause anxiety regarding the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.
3. Increased chance of miscarriage.
If you're older than age 35, you have a higher risk of miscarriage than a younger person. At age 35, you have about a 20% risk. At age 40, the risk is about 33% to 40%. And at age 45, it ranges from 57% to 80%. This can add a huge strain on couples trying to conceive later in life.
4. Lengthy Time to Conceive.
Women over 40 often face lengthier periods of trying to conceive compared to younger counterparts. The extended time frame can induce stress, frustration, and doubts about the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.
5. Increased Emotional and Financial Burden.
The emotional toll of infertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or assisted reproductive technologies (ART), can be overwhelming. Additionally, the associated financial costs of these procedures can add to the worries and doubts experienced by women pursuing pregnancy later in life.
6. Fear of Multiple Pregnancies.
The use of fertility treatments may increase the chances of multiple pregnancies, raising concerns about the health risks associated with carrying and delivering twins or multiples. This fear can contribute to the overall worries related to conceiving over 40.
7. Social Stigma and Judgment.
Society often places pressure on women to have children at a younger age. Consequently, women who attempt to conceive later in life may face societal judgment and stigmatization.
8. Balancing Career and Motherhood.
Many women have established successful careers by the time they reach their 40s. The decision to embark on the journey of motherhood can bring worries about balancing professional aspirations with the demands of raising a child.
9. Energy and Physical Stamina.
The physical demands of pregnancy and caring for a child can be more challenging for women in their 40s. Worries about having enough energy and physical stamina to meet the demands of motherhood can arise, causing doubts about the feasibility of starting a family later in life.
10. Long-Term Health and Life Expectancy.
Embarking on motherhood in one's 40s raises concerns about long-term health and life expectancy. Worries about being able to provide for a child's needs and being present throughout their life journey may emerge, influencing the decision to conceive at this stage.
The thing to remember is that if you are experiencing any or all of these worries they are not cause to give up hope. For example, a 33% chance of loss also means a 67% chance of success. Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed 28,478 births to UK mothers aged 40 to 44 in 2021, and 2,064 to UK mothers aged 45 and over.
So if you are trying to conceive later in life, you are not alone.
Follow my TTC over 40 journey for support and relatable mum-to-be / older mum stories over on Insta and Tiktok @s.s.c.keepsakes
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