How long before menopause is ok to get pregnant?

[Again]

I know that I don't know when it's going to happen as such, but both mum and grandmum hit the menopause at 42. I've heard that there is a certain period (excuse the pun) before the menopause where you shouldn't get pregnant if want a 'healthy' child. Not sure on any details.

That's really just nonsense. Risk of chromosomal abnormalities increase as you get older, but there's no special date when all your eggs suddenly go past their sell-by date. If both your mum and grandma had their menopause at 42 that's quite early and it is inherited. HOw old are you? The menopause is not the date when you suddenly cease to be fertile. Your fertility runs down as you go towards your menopause.

Only 33, but planning on having 2 more and kind of wondering what age I should be aiming to have them (though I realise that it's not an exact science).

I'd say have another one as soon as you can face it given your family history! I'm not a doctor and don't have early menopause in my family but a friend does and has looked into it. You may not have an early menopause and could have years and years of fertility ahead of you, but genetics have a lot to do with it. I think your focus is best put on having babies when you are still fertile, not worrying about abnormalities. Good luck! If you want to check how fertile you are there is a test you can take to check out your ovarian reserve (ie how many eggs you have left) and your hormones. It is supposed to be quite effective. Expensive though! www.fertilitytest.co.uk/planahead.html

Thanks MsDemeanor. I'll have to do some serious thinking (and talking!).