The reproductologist spoke about the chances of pregnancy after 40
Pregnancy after the age of 40 remains possible, but requires more thorough preparation, comprehensive examination and monitoring of the health of both partners. All the details are in the Izvestia article.
Chances of success
The probability of natural conception after 40 years is noticeably reduced. According to reproductive therapist Maria Uskova, in one cycle the chances are about 5-10%, and after 43 years they fall to less than 1-2%. The expert cites a decrease in the number and quality of eggs as the main reason.
"With age, genetic breakdowns occur more often in eggs— errors in the division of chromosomes. This is the main reason for reducing the likelihood of conception and increasing the risk of miscarriages," explained Uskova.
Reproductologist Tatiana Baranova noted that the male factor is also important, as the level of DNA fragmentation in spermatozoa increases over time. To increase the chances, experts recommend using assisted reproductive technology methods such as embryo cryopreservation, ovulation induction, or IVF with genetic testing.
Necessary examinations
Before planning a pregnancy in adulthood, a couple needs to undergo a comprehensive diagnosis. Women are required to have an ultrasound of the ovaries and an AMH test to assess the stock of eggs, as well as a check of the thyroid gland and hemostasis. Men should take a spermogram with a MAR test and a DNA fragmentation test.
"A man's sperm cells are renewed every 70-80 days. DNA fragmentation — microfractures - has been increasing over the years. This is fixable," Baranova added.
Maternal and child health
Doctors consider preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and premature birth to be the main risks of late pregnancy. To reduce them, experts recommend starting folic acid three months before trying to conceive, controlling blood pressure and sugar, and, if necessary, taking low-dose aspirin or progesterone as prescribed by a doctor.
Adulthood requires a conscious attitude towards chronic diseases and weight. According to Baranova, preparing the body and giving up bad habits three months before conception can reduce the likelihood of complications and improve the quality of genetic material.
Psychological barriers
Psychologist Svetlana Pulya emphasizes that later parenthood often becomes a conscious choice, in which couples have financial stability and emotional stability. However, such parents often face the fear of age-related risks and societal pressure.
"From the point of view of neuropsychology, a mature brain is better prepared for parenthood than a young one: it is calmer, more flexible, more resistant to stress. But this resource is fully revealed only when a person allows himself not to idealize the process," said Bullet.
According to her, support within the relationship plays an important role. Couples are advised to discuss feelings, not to turn pregnancy planning solely into a "medical project" and to maintain emotional intimacy.
"Planning a child is a project for two people. If the entire burden (visits to doctors, tests, anxiety) falls on a woman, this is a signal for a serious conversation," added Bullet.
Fears of Late Parenthood
Psychotherapist Sergey Smirnov notes that motivation becomes more conscious after the age of 40. At the same time, it is important for couples to avoid perfectionism and hypercontrol, which lead to burnout. The expert advises partners to maintain harmony, arrange dates without discussing the topic of analysis, and develop a common position to protect themselves from societal pressure.
"It is difficult to maintain harmony, but it is possible. Enter the rule: once a week, a date without the words "pregnancy," "ovulation," "tests," concluded Smirnov.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
