Getting Pregnant After 40: What You Should Know
As more people choose to start families later in life, it's important to understand what getting pregnant after age 40 really entails. While it can take more planning and support, many individuals and couples in their 40s do go on to have healthy pregnancies—with or without fertility treatment. Here are some important insights to keep in mind.
How Fertility Changes After 40
Female fertility naturally declines with age. By the time a woman reaches 40, her chances of conceiving each month drop to about 5–10%, compared to roughly 20% in her early 30s. This is mainly due to a reduction in both egg quantity and egg quality.
Male fertility also sees changes with age—though the decline is more gradual. After 40, men may experience lower testosterone levels, which can affect sperm production. Sperm motility (how well they move) and morphology (shape) can decline, increasing the likelihood of genetic complications. Older age in men has also been linked to conditions like erectile dysfunction and a greater risk of chromosomal abnormalities in offspring.
Still, many individuals and couples in their 40s successfully conceive—especially with the help of fertility treatments and personalized care.
Potential Risks to Be Aware Of
Pregnancy over 40 is considered higher risk and may be associated with a greater likelihood of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, elevated blood pressure, and chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome. Consistent prenatal monitoring and early screenings are key to supporting the health of both parent and baby.
Prioritizing Preconception Health
Before trying to conceive, take steps to optimize your health. Maintain a balanced diet, stay active, and avoid smoking and heavy alcohol use. It's also a good idea to schedule a preconception checkup to screen for any underlying issues that may affect fertility or pregnancy.
Our own Dr. John Jarrett has compiled this list of tips to maximize your fertility at any age.
When to See a Fertility Specialist
Because time plays a critical role, we encourage individuals over 40 to consult a fertility specialist as early as possible in their journey. At Indiana Fertility Institute, our reproductive endocrinologists can assess hormone levels, evaluate ovarian reserve, and identify any barriers to conception. Based on these results, we’ll recommend personalized treatment options.
Fertility Treatments That May Help
Several medical options are available to increase your chances of getting pregnant after 40:
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In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): IVF remains one of the most effective treatments. It involves retrieving eggs, fertilizing them in a lab, and transferring the healthiest embryos into the uterus. We often recommend preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to screen for chromosomal abnormalities, which become more common with age.
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Donor Eggs: If egg quality or quantity is a concern, using eggs from a carefully screened donor may offer the best chance for success. Donor egg IVF can significantly increase the odds of a healthy pregnancy.
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Ovulation Induction & Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): For some, less invasive options like ovulation-stimulating medications paired with IUI may be explored before moving on to IVF.
Success Rates After 40
While fertility success rates naturally decline with age, many patients still achieve pregnancy in their 40s—with or without assisted reproductive technology.
According to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) 2023 Preliminary National Summary Report, women between the ages of 41-42 had about a 9% success rate per IVF cycle using their own eggs, while women above the age of 42 had about a 3% success rate.
However, IVF with donor eggs dramatically improves outcomes, with success rates often around 35-45% per transfer, depending on other health factors.
At Indiana Fertility Institute, we take a personalized approach to maximize your chances of success, offering cutting-edge treatments alongside compassionate, expert care. You can find our 2023 Preliminary Clinic Summary Report here.
Supporting Your Mental and Emotional Health
The fertility journey can feel overwhelming at times, especially when facing setbacks like failed treatment cycles or miscarriage. Having a solid support network and access to mental health resources can make a significant difference. Counseling, peer groups, yoga, acupuncture, and mindfulness practices can help reduce stress and build emotional resilience throughout the process.
Final Thoughts
While getting pregnant after 40 presents unique challenges, it’s entirely possible—with the right guidance and care. Taking proactive steps, consulting a fertility specialist, and maintaining your overall well-being can help improve outcomes. At Indiana Fertility Institute, we're here to support you every step of the way.
If you're considering growing your family after 40, we invite you to connect with our compassionate team. Schedule a consultation today and explore the fertility options that may be right for you.