Wanting a child at 40+ – honest facts and real chances

More and more women come to us in their early or mid-forties wishing to have a child. Here we want to spread neither false optimism nor unfounded fear – but to speak honestly about chances and limits.

The numbers

At 40, the natural monthly probability of pregnancy is about 5% (Homan et al., Human Reproduction Update 2007). With IVF/ICSI we can improve this rate significantly – but egg quality remains the limiting factor.

Age and egg quality

• From age 35, egg quality declines noticeably.
• From age 35, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases.
• From age 43, success rates are significantly limited even with IVF.

What we can do

We tailor the stimulation protocol individually to your reserve. Mini-IVF or natural cycle IVF can be more sensible than aggressive stimulation when the reserve is low. And: sometimes it takes several attempts.

Our promise

We advise you honestly and realistically – without taking away your hope. Over the age of 40, women get pregnant with us too.