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Conception

When's the best time to get pregnant? Use our interactive ovulation calculator to work out when you're most fertile and most likely to conceive.

Original poster

Honesty and kindness required: natural conception after 40?

34 replies

RaisingYankeesinParis · 02/05/2023 16:29

Hello,

saw a new doctor today. We want a 4th but not badly enough to do the IVF route. We are Catholics and greatly desire a natural conception, but I am 42. (Our babies are 10, 7 and 4). I am recovering from a blighted ovum.

The doctor told me that the rate of miscarriage goes way up starting at 39. i told the doctor I feel surrounded by successful 40-something mothers of newborns and he said very few admit to having multiple miscarriages or to using IVF.

I was interested to know what Mumsnet’s experience is. Have you or has someone you know succeeded in conceiving and carrying naturally ?

no mean comments please. Just wanted to know if I have been super naiive to even imagine it might be possible. Cheers

OP posts:
Crabwoman · 02/05/2023 16:55

A friend conceived two babies naturally at 41 and 43 and carried them successfully.

I also have two friends who had late-term miscarriages in their early 40s, which was harrowing. Another who had to abort due to a serious diagnosis.

Maireas · 02/05/2023 16:50

There will be lots of people on here with stories of later motherhood, OP. You would be by no means unique. However, the statistics would indicate that it will be harder and the risks higher. Best of luck.

Paperbagsaremine · 02/05/2023 16:45

My better half came along when his mum was 42 - this was the 60s, so definitely natural and definitely a surprise!

AlwaysAlba · 02/05/2023 16:43

I had children in my twenties and thirties but can’t get pregnant in my early forties (43 now). My Nan fell pregnant with my Mum aged 49, after 30 years of marriage with no pregnancies.

Iusedtobedontcall · 02/05/2023 16:40

I suppose you do have to factor in how you would feel about raising a child with a disability as that is also an increased risk.

Iusedtobedontcall · 02/05/2023 16:38

I’m 42 and have had a MMC in August, conceived again in December but unfortunately terminated due to Trisomy 21. Trying again and have had fertility tests done that look good - I think it’s very possible at this age, but yes miscarriage risks do rise.

IamNannyPlum · 02/05/2023 16:37

I conceived my second at 40 after a miscarriage at 38.

Original poster
RaisingYankeesinParis · 02/05/2023 16:35

thanks for responding ! ❤️

OP posts:
17to35 · 02/05/2023 16:30

I conceived and carried naturally at 44