Is there an age you can safely give up using contraception?

[atthestrokeoftwelve]

Just wondered if I should still be using it. My OH feels we should, but is there an age that pregnancy is no longer possible?

[ilovepowerhoop]

have you gone through the menopause? There is no set age as everyone is different but if you are still having periods then pregnancy is still possible

[NickNacks]

Erm after the menopause.

Did you do biology at school??

[Weegiemum]

My gynae (who has looked after me through my prem menopause) told me at least 2 years period free at my age (I'm only 43). If dh hadn't had the snip 10 years ago, I'd not feel happy with that!! I wouldn't want to take the risk!

I hope someone who has had a more"normal" menopause (is there such a thing??) will come along with better advice for you.

[ilovepowerhoop]

www.nhs.uk/conditions/Menopause/Pages/Introduction.aspx

[atthestrokeoftwelve]

Nicknacks thanks for that.

[ilovepowerhoop]

from that link:

carry on using contraception for two years after your last period if you are under 50 and for one year if you are over 50.

[atthestrokeoftwelve]

Obviously menopause is critical but I am 52, no menopausal symptoms. My mother had her menopause at 59 but births are rare in women of my age?

[ilovepowerhoop]

are you still having periods?

[NickNacks]

You are very welcome. Glad I could help. :)

[AuntieStella]

Yes, rare but conception is not impossible especially if still menstruating regularly (whether the pg is carried to term is a separate question, as miscarriage rate also increases significantly).

[ilovepowerhoop]

they might be rare but not impossible which is why the advice is given about continuing with contraception

[atthestrokeoftwelve]

Thanks everyone.