Third pregnancy at 40 years old, doctors’ opinion

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Salma Hayek, Kim Basinger, Halle Berry are not just Hollywood beauties who have managed to make a successful career in their lives and have been married several times. They decided on a desperate act: to give birth for the first time at the age of 40, without using the services of a surrogate mother. Some will say that this is a common thing for stars, but the latest statistics say the opposite: the average age of first-time mothers is actively approaching 40.

Today, more and more often, women become mothers for the first time at the age of 35-37 years, and for the second time they decide to have a child when they are 40 years of age or more. Back in the Soviet Union, this was beyond the scope, but now times have changed and this is becoming more of a norm. But how safe pregnancy is after 40 years of age, doctors’ opinions on this matter are divided: from positive to negative. What to do, is it worth the risk or not? What awaits those who want to become parents at this age?

Why is it difficult to get pregnant at 40?

Women's eggs are formed even before birth; their number is in the millions. They decrease rapidly while it lasts intrauterine period, at the time of birth there are approximately 2 million eggs left. The process does not stop; by the beginning of the menstrual cycle, a girl has only about 300 thousand eggs and then they become less and less. This means that by the age of 40, a woman has very few eggs left that can be fertilized. However, this is not the only reason why it is difficult to get pregnant at 40 years old. Many factors, including age, affect the quality of the eggs themselves. They become less productive, and often hide genetic abnormalities.

How to prepare for conception

It is possible to give birth to a child in adulthood, but a preliminary preparatory period is necessary for both women and men. Firstly, you need to give up cigarettes and alcohol; secondly, reconsider your diet in favor of healthier foods. If you have problems with excess weight, it is imperative that both partners fight this problem, because it is often because of this that a couple fails to get pregnant.

Pregnancy at 40 years old, according to doctors, is no different from an earlier one, so before conceiving, a woman also needs to visit a dentist and have her problem teeth treated. In addition, the preparation period includes taking a vitamin complex with minerals:

folic acid;
selenium;
zinc;
magnesium;
vitamins B6, C, E.

And men need medications that will increase sperm activity, and therefore the chances of conceiving a child. Both partners should start taking the pills at least 2 months before conception.

In order for the probability of conception to be high, you need to accurately determine the time when the egg is ready for fertilization (ovulation period). This can be done using rapid ovulation tests.

Late pregnancy and women's health

What to do, whether to give birth or not on the threshold of your 40th birthday, because this can affect your health? This is the first question women ask themselves. And the second is how exactly pregnancy and childbirth will be affected. Do not be alarmed if you are diagnosed with pregnancy after 40 years of age; doctors’ reviews do not prohibit having children at this age, but only in the absence of direct contraindications.

How does pregnancy affect the woman herself? There are actually two sides, positive and negative. On the one hand, this period rejuvenates a woman due to a hormonal surge, and the effect continues during the lactation period. However, all this is short-term in nature, as it disappears after breastfeeding is stopped, as the level of hormones returns to its previous state.

Necessary examinations

If you decide to give birth to a second child after 40 or are preparing to become a mother for the first time, be prepared to undergo a number of necessary examinations. This is necessary in order to determine whether the fetus has genetic abnormalities, since with age the risk of being born with genetic abnormalities increases. These include the following:

Ultrasound at 11th and 18th weeks.
"Triple test" This is a blood test during the period of 16-18 weeks, helps to identify fetal pathologies.
Amniocentesis. To obtain results, a fence is made amniotic fluid, but not earlier than the 14th week.
Cordocentesis. This is a blood test from the umbilical cord. This is done to count the exact number of chromosomes in the fetus. The optimal period for examination is from the 22nd to the 24th week of pregnancy.
Chorionic villus biopsy. It is carried out to identify Down syndrome and other abnormalities. Fragments of the placenta are taken as laboratory material. The test is carried out between the 11th and 14th weeks.
Cardiotocography. This is a test of the baby's heart rate to detect oxygen deprivation. Done at the end of the 3rd trimester.

Possible complications during pregnancy and childbirth

Even the first child at 40 years old will be healthy if the expectant mother follows all medical prescriptions and takes redoubled effort to take care of her health. On the other hand, at any time, pregnancy after 40 years, according to doctors, can become complicated. It could be:

gestosis (increased blood pressure, swelling);
diseases of the endocrine system;
diabetes;
hormonal disbalance;
exacerbation of chronic infections.

What other difficulties might there be? Every year, the elasticity of the tissues and muscles of the female organs decreases, it becomes more difficult for the uterus to hold the fetus, and therefore a 40-year-old woman automatically falls into the risk group for miscarriage. However, difficulties also await during childbirth. Weak labor activity, premature birth, ruptures and bleeding - all this can occur at any time when pregnancy is after 40 years, according to reviews from mothers.

Many people believe that age means a direct hit on the surgical table. This is not true; a caesarean section is prescribed only for certain indications. In other cases, it is recommended to give birth naturally, however, with long breaks, more than 10 years, the birth memory of the female body disappears and the process can proceed as if for the first time.

Opinion of psychologists: late mothers - good or not?

First, second or third pregnancy at 40 years old - to give birth or not, what to do? According to psychologists, physiological readiness for motherhood lags behind psychological readiness by 10 years. So, it is at the age of 35-40 that a woman is ready to become a full-fledged mother, devoting herself entirely to caring for and raising her child. According to statistics, late parents are more likely than others to raise child prodigies and live longer than other couples of a similar age.

The second aspect why psychologists consider middle age to be successful for pregnancy is that by this time a career, material level and other values for the sake of which many young women postpone procreation until later. Subsequently, having secured a future for themselves and their future children, they can completely and completely calmly devote the first few years after their birth to their child.

For some couples, their first pregnancy at the age of 40 occurs after a series of long unsuccessful attempts, just when the last hope dries up. A newborn child is an unexpected happiness, but because of this, in this case he is often under overprotection, although excessive care and attention negatively affects the child’s psychological development.

Don’t be alarmed if you are pregnant at the age of 40; reviews from doctors prove that with proper management of pregnancy, taking into account all possible risks and the correct attitude of a woman towards her pregnancy, pregnancy and the birth itself take place without complications. A child born from adult parents in such cases is no different from his peers.

Nowadays, more and more often, girls are thinking about whether to give birth at 40 years old. Late births in Europe are not so rare. In Russia, too, a similar phenomenon has begun to develop recently. But is it worth doing this? Are the risks worth it? Is it possible to give birth after 40 years healthy baby? What will it take? In fact, figuring all this out is not as easy as it seems. After all, if a girl is thinking about whether it is possible to have a child after 40 years old, she will have to study many points of view. And only after that draw appropriate conclusions. So what should you pay attention to?

Why does desire arise?

First of all, every woman must decide for herself why she wants to give birth after 40 years. After all, such an age is considered respectable. Every girl should have good reasons to agree to such a step.

Today in Russia people most often think about late childbirth:

out of fear of being a bad mother;
due to lack of career;
due to financial problems (children are expensive);
in the absence of own housing;
when they want to live a little for themselves.

Doctors say that most women want to give birth at 40 years old only because by this age they manage to get on their feet in life. Usually, by the age of 40, a person already has his own home, money, and career. Then you can think about procreation. But is it too late?

Physiology

In fact, there is no clear answer. Therefore, both doctors and women very often argue about late labor. Should I give birth at 40? Every girl must decide this for herself. But only after studying all the positive and negative aspects of the process.

From a physiological point of view, the body is ready for childbearing from the age of 18-20. It is by this period that it is possible with minimal negative consequences for your health to get pregnant, carry and give birth to a healthy baby.

The physiologically ideal time for childbirth continues until approximately 35 years of age. After this, the person’s body begins to age. And that's why many doctors don't approve of late labor.

First born or not

Is it worth having a baby? 40 years is not a death sentence for modern parents if they are full of strength and energy. That’s why they decide to take such a risky step - to give birth after 40.

In fact, a lot depends on what kind of birth we are talking about. The first-born at this age is, according to many doctors, the selfishness of the parents. But if you have already given birth before, you can give birth again. But only after a thorough examination of the woman’s body and treatment of all diseases. After all, even a minor illness can negatively affect the health of the unborn baby.

Danger

In fact, even childbirth early years- this is a huge danger. That is why it is clear why it is so important to figure out whether to give birth at 40 years old. A mistake or selfishness of parents can ruin not only family relationships, but also destroy the baby’s life.

Childbirth is a natural process that puts a lot of stress on a woman’s body. All doctors say that it is during this period that the girl’s many chronic diseases, which previously did not make themselves known, become aggravated. At a young age, maintaining a pregnancy and overcoming certain diseases is not so easy. And with age it is even more difficult to do this.

Accordingly, giving birth at 40 years old will be more dangerous and difficult than at 20. Moreover, there is a high probability that after pregnancy, many diseases will worsen in a woman. Most health problems, even in a completely healthy and strong person, arise after 40. This factor will have to be taken into account before agreeing to a late birth.

Miscarriages

Should I give birth at 40? The answer to this question is not as simple as it seems. Doctors often do not recommend agreeing to such a step. Why? It's not just a matter of exacerbation of diseases.

The problem is that after 40 years of age, the likelihood of miscarriage or early labor with a fatal outcome for the fetus increases. According to statistics, the probability of miscarriage at 40 years old is 34%, at 45 - 53%. At 20 years of age, miscarriages occur only in 10% of cases, at 30 - in 12-13%.

Vices

Can you give birth at 40? Yes. And this practice is observed in many countries. Especially in Europe. Only the set goal will have to be approached with special attention and responsibility.

After 35 years, as a rule, the likelihood of not only miscarriages, but also the formation of congenital defects increases. Doctors say that children born after 40 are often born with hyperactivity or Down syndrome.

All parents should know about this. This is the only way to weigh all the pros and cons of the idea. The goal of pregnancy is to give birth to a healthy baby. And if doctors strongly recommend giving up pregnancy at the age of 40 due to the high likelihood of developmental defects, it is better to listen to them.

Chances of pregnancy

As practice shows, it is possible to give birth to a child at 40 years old. But doctors assure that if a woman managed to get pregnant by this age, she was very lucky. Why?

Fertility in women decreases over the years. That is, the likelihood of getting pregnant decreases. After 40 years, according to statistics, fertility will decrease by 90%. Accordingly, even if the doctor has authorized the birth, it is not a fact that pregnancy will occur.

But fertility is an individual component of the female body. Some people have difficulty conceiving at 20, let alone 40. Therefore, it is not so easy to get pregnant. And if conception occurs after this age, most women refuse to have an abortion.

About menopause

What other features should future parents pay attention to? Having a child after 40 years is not as easy as it seems. In addition to all the problems listed earlier, a woman faces a process such as menopause. It is not difficult to guess that this is the first sign of aging of the body.

Menopause, as well as menopause, are periods that have an extremely negative impact on a woman. They mark the end of the childbearing period. In fact, after 35 years, the body begins to age quickly. And by the age of 40-45, many women suffer from menopause. In this case, it is recommended not to become pregnant.

By the way, doctors say that during premenopause, which occurs at the age of 35-38, problems with conception may arise. More precisely, it is extremely difficult to catch ovulation during this period of time. All this must be taken into account if you want to give birth as late as possible.

Wonderful eggs

What to do if a woman wants to give birth at 40? The opinion of doctors on this matter, as already mentioned, is ambiguous. It is impossible to say with certainty whether it is worth

Not long ago, scientists came to the conclusion that a woman has a certain set of eggs that will be suitable for fertilization. And they all end at different times.

One thing is for sure - by the age of 40 there are practically no suitable eggs. Accordingly, even the chance of getting pregnant during this period is small. If you want to give birth to a third child at the age of 40, or at least a second, it is recommended to consult a doctor. But in this case, the body was already familiar with childbirth. And if the doctor can verify that the woman is in normal health, he will allow the pregnancy.

Delivery

Is it possible to have a second child at 40? The opinion on this matter is not entirely clear. Yes, just like the first, childbirth is possible. Only if we take into account all the previously listed points can we come to the conclusion that such a step is dangerous for the fetus and for the expectant mother. Not always, but very often this is exactly the case.

Doctors say that few people manage to give birth independently at this age. Most often you have to do a caesarean section. Of course, the operation does not go without a trace. It leaves its mark on a woman’s weakened body. Having a child at 40 is more of a feat. And a risky move for most couples.

Accordingly, natural childbirth is unlikely to take place. And if a girl is no longer thinking about her first birth with a cesarean section, then she will most likely be asked to refrain from this process.

Should I give birth to a second child at 40? Each girl, as already mentioned, decides this for herself. But, as a rule, a second C-section is not as dangerous as a third or fourth. Accordingly, many women agree to such a step. But according to statistics, so far only 2% of girls give birth late.

What can interfere

Is it worth having a baby? 40 years is not a death sentence for women and men. Many people say that it is at this age that life begins. And that’s why I have late births. There are a number of factors that negatively affect pregnancy. Especially in adulthood. If they are present, doctors recommend not to behave selfishly and not to give preference to late childbirth. What is it about?

Among the processes that negatively affect pregnancy and childbirth are:

Bad habits. By the age of 40-50, the body that received alcohol or tobacco becomes depleted. This leads to problems with the lungs as well as other organs. Even at a young age, bad habits negatively affect the process of conception.
Stress. How more people lives, the more stress he endures. In old age, unnecessary worries weigh on the heart. And pregnancy is a burden on the entire body as a whole. Is it really possible to have a baby after 40? Yes, but only if you have a healthy heart and no constant stress. Otherwise, the baby will not be born healthy.
Poor nutrition. There are people who believe that at 40, life comes to an end. For the body, this is a new stage at which certain diseases worsen. Even in the absence of pregnancy. Poor nutrition is a factor that affects both the success of conception and the course of the entire pregnancy as a whole.
Caffeine. Drinking large amounts of caffeine can also cause heart problems. And during childbirth, a weakened female body is unable to withstand the load.

Accordingly, all of the above points negatively affect the success of conception and the course of pregnancy. If a woman has been abusing them for a long time (or her entire life), doctors are unlikely to allow late labor. This is dangerous primarily for the woman in labor herself. Doctors always think first about the safety of the mother, and then about the child.

Is it worth going to the doctor?

So, the woman decided to give birth to her second child at the age of 40. Should we ask the opinion of specialists on this matter or not? Is it even worth going to a gynecologist and other specialists before planning a pregnancy?

The answer is obvious. Yes, before planning a child, it is necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination of the body. After all, pregnancy is a difficult process that requires careful preparation at any age.

In general, only a gynecologist can tell a woman exactly whether she should give birth at 40 or not. Most often the answer will be negative. All this because it's perfect healthy people It is difficult to find at this age. Or the doctor will warn about possible complications and consequences of late childbirth. But we can say with confidence that this matter cannot be done without consultation.

Individuality

Is it possible to have a child after 40 years of age? Yes, but under certain conditions. And the woman will do everything at her own peril and risk. Late childbirth is not prohibited by doctors, it is simply not recommended.

In general, this issue is resolved on an individual basis. In general, as already mentioned, it is not very often recommended to give birth after 40. But there are exceptions. Every woman has her own body. Depending on his condition, the doctors' response will vary.

Most often, when individually resolving issues related to late childbirth, the following are taken into account:

woman's health history;
general health;
the wish of the expectant mother;
heredity;
presence of chronic diseases;
psychological condition.

Only after a thorough study of these factors will it be possible to say with confidence what the doctor thinks about late labor. Childbirth can proceed normally even at 40 years of age. But the likelihood of such an outcome is low. Many women try to hope for luck. You shouldn't do this. If the doctor definitely said that childbirth is too risky, you need to listen to him.

Rejuvenation

Some believe that pregnancy is not only a burden on the body, but also a means of rejuvenation. Indeed, it is so. Scientists have proven that women become younger during pregnancy. Not too much, but there is a result. All this has been proven by doctors. The result of rejuvenation is achieved due to hormones that begin to be produced in a woman in an interesting position.

For example, you may notice that a girl’s hair growth is accelerating. It is because of pregnancy that a similar result is obtained. The placenta plays a huge role in the rejuvenation of the body. It is formed before 12-14 weeks of pregnancy. After this, the placenta begins to secrete a hormone that has a beneficial effect on the woman’s body.

It is not always contraindicated to give birth at 40 years old. Considering that in an interesting position a woman’s body rejuvenates, we can come to the conclusion that pregnancy positive sides also has. But, as doctors say, the risks for the woman and the unborn baby are still high. And they cannot be justified by minor rejuvenation.

Selfishness or calculation

Is having a child at 40 a decision that is often made purely on the basis of calculation? Or do expectant mothers simply turn on their selfishness and their “wants”?

Doctors often emphasize that few people even think about how dangerous late labor is. And either pregnancy occurs by accident, or it is a woman’s conscious choice.

Some believe that late birth - To some extent this is true. Especially if we are talking about the first-born, born at 40-45 years old. The thing is that when graduating from school or university, in this case the child will be greeted not by young parents, but by grandparents. This leaves its mark on the child’s future life.

It’s a completely different matter if, after long and persistent attempts to get pregnant, conception happened, but the age approached 40 years. Then childbirth is a conscious choice that cannot be called selfishness. But, as a rule, such couples are carefully examined and listen to all the recommendations and advice of doctors.

What else can be said about late labor? What features of this process are recommended for all girls to pay attention to?

As a woman ages, the likelihood of multiple pregnancies increases. Therefore, if a girl wants to give birth after 40, she should be prepared for the fact that she may have several fetuses.

If speak about premature birth, then they happen more often in those who already have children. Women who give birth after 40 with their first child usually give birth at term. These are the observations that doctors have been making for many years.

Probability caesarean section in fact it is the same at any age. But it is generally accepted that after 35 years this operation is resorted to more often. All this is due to the fact that pregnancy itself is more difficult for women in adulthood. And natural childbirth is sometimes life-threatening.

For men

Is it really possible to have a second child after 40? The opinion of experts on this matter regarding women is known. What do they say about men? Until what age can they become fathers?

There is no exact answer in this area. After all, men usually retain their functions until they are 45-50 years old, more often until they are 60. Even at 70 years old, a man can become a father. There are no serious contraindications for the stronger sex.

Results

What can a woman who gave birth at 40 say? Reviews about late childbirth vary. There are those who complain about the difficult course of pregnancy and not the best outcome. Someone says that at the age of 40 they carried and gave birth to a healthy baby without any problems. So, late birth is an individual issue.

Doctors most often do not recommend giving birth after 40. Late childbirth is a huge risk. But this does not mean that everyone should give birth early. As already noted, this process is purely individual. Each case must be considered separately. When can I give birth? 40 years is not a death sentence for modern citizens!

During the Soviet Union, the average age of first-time women was 18-22 years; pregnancy after 30 years, by doctors’ standards, was considered late and included in the risk group. Over time, these dates have moved up to 35 years, and in our time, progressive doctors consider pregnancy at 40 to be the norm.

The most favorable age for bearing a child, according to experts, ranges from 22 to 29 years. By this time, the reproductive system is fully formed and is at its peak of activity. Despite this, in Russia the average age of first-time mothers is confidently moving beyond 30. The number of women who decide to become pregnant and give birth after 40 is steadily growing. This is due to the situation in modern society.

Over the past 15 years, the number of women who decided to become pregnant at 40 has increased by 50%.

For whatever reasons, pregnancy and childbirth are postponed, sooner or later a woman begins to think about a child, and then the question arises about the pros and cons of pregnancy at 40.

According to medical statistics, timely registration and constant monitoring of the condition of the mother and child makes it possible to give birth to a healthy baby.

Pros:

Psychological readiness for motherhood u. Pregnancy at the age of 40 is usually planned, and the expectant mother patiently endures all the hardships of this condition (constant visits to doctors, fatigue,) and is meticulous about her health.
Financial position . At a more mature age, a woman already has “ground under her feet” and consciously takes this step.
Strong marriage . Relationships that have been tested over the years are an important component in the proper upbringing of children. Statistics show that a considerable proportion of marriages break up due to an unplanned pregnancy, when young people are not ready to become parents. At a more mature age, the family is already established, the spouses know each other well, have managed to live for themselves and are ready to raise a child together.
Update . Doctors believe that during pregnancy, the body rejuvenates, the production of sex hormones increases, which has a positive effect on a woman’s appearance. A child in adulthood is an incentive for parents.

Despite all the positive aspects of pregnancy and childbirth at 40, there are a number of factors that can darken a woman’s joyful expectations. But if you eliminate them in time, you can avoid unpleasant consequences.

Minuses:

The biological clock . After 30 years, the reproductive system begins to gradually fade away and the ability to get pregnant decreases every year. Irreversible processes occur in the reproductive organs, the functioning of the ovaries is disrupted, the number of active eggs decreases, so many women ask the question - how to get pregnant after 40? In addition, the older the man, the less chance of successful fertilization. However, experts state that the age at which it begins is increasing. If previously the menopause began after 40, now a woman’s reproductive system functions up to 50, and sometimes even 53 years.
Risk of genetic abnormalities . Eggs do not have the ability to renew themselves, but can accumulate all the negative information that they received during the life of the expectant mother. As a result, there is a possibility that the child will receive an insufficient number of chromosomes or an excess of them. The risk doubles if someone in the family has such abnormalities. One of the most well-known chromosomal abnormalities is Down syndrome.
Long-term recovery after childbirth . Pregnancy and childbirth at 40 require maximum effort and physical health. Since the work of all organs and systems is at the stage of slow decline, the recovery process may be delayed.
Risk of complications. With age, the likelihood of complications increases, such as, etc.
Psychological aspects . In addition to the fact that many women themselves doubt the correctness of their decision to get pregnant after 40 years, society puts pressure on them. Friends don’t understand, the employer is shocked, and even the gynecologist whom the expectant mother consults may behave incorrectly and blame her for her late pregnancy. The main thing is to remember that these are all nothing more than stereotypes.

If you are planning a pregnancy after 40, then the first thing you need to do is visit a doctor, get tested and find out what the health status of the future parents is.

Carrying a child is a colossal burden on the body, and at this time chronic diseases can worsen, threatening the health of not only the mother, but also the fetus.

The father of the unborn baby must also undergo a detailed examination. In men, even such a harmless pathology as a gum infection can cause failure to conceive.

Six months before the planned pregnancy, it is necessary to give up bad habits, normalize weight,, if possible, engage in light sports (swimming is best), and eat a balanced diet. It is recommended to avoid stressful situations whenever possible.

If pregnancy at the age of 40 comes as a surprise to the spouses, the expectant mother should immediately contact her gynecologist. In the absence of categorical contraindications for pregnancy and childbirth after 40, the woman will be put on.

Absolute contraindications to pregnancy at 40 years of age include severe blood diseases, cirrhosis of the liver, malignant tumors, grade 3 hypertension, severe diabetes mellitus, as well as cardiac, respiratory or renal failure.

After a woman is registered, she must be under close medical supervision. Particular attention is paid to first-time mothers.

To exclude possible pathological abnormalities in the fetus, obstetricians strongly recommend undergoing a series of studies:

Ultrasound examination with additional tests. It is carried out at a period of 11–14 weeks in order to clarify the duration of pregnancy and assess the condition of the fetal nuchal space. Enlargement of the nuchal translucency may indicate Down syndrome. To make an accurate diagnosis, the woman is sent for additional examinations.
Ultrasound for more later shows visible abnormalities of fetal development, such as pathologies of the abdominal wall and internal organs. The accuracy of the study reaches 90%.
Alpha-fetoprotein test - determines the risk of developing Down syndrome.
Amniocentesis – . Allows you to assess the degree of maturity of the child’s internal organs, determine the presence of developmental defects and gene disorders.
Chorionic villus biopsy is prescribed to confirm the diagnosis of Down syndrome. The procedure is performed in extreme cases, as it increases the risk of development.

In this case, preparation should be the most thorough, since the first pregnancy at this age is more difficult both psychologically and physiologically.

By the age of 40, as a rule, there is a history of somatic and gynecological diseases that can affect bearing a child. During preparation, the assistance of specialized doctors may be required.

The first pregnancy at 40 years old can be a great stress for the body, which increases the risk of exacerbation of chronic diseases.

To avoid complications during pregnancy, you must:

check the cardiovascular system;
take a blood sugar test;
undergo hormone testing;
do an ultrasound of the pelvic organs.

If violations are discovered, you need to undergo a course of treatment, otherwise there is a risk of not being able to bear a child or significantly compromising your health.

Second pregnancy at 40

A second pregnancy after 40 is nothing special. Again, its course can be affected by acquired diseases, so at the planning stage it is important to eliminate the risk of complications.

Even before conception, you need to consult with specialists of a narrow profile. This could be an endocrinologist, mammologist, gastroenterologist, cardiologist, vascular surgeon and, of course, a gynecologist. They will prescribe examination and treatment for the identified disease, and give recommendations for the prevention of complications.

Third pregnancy at 40

There are no fundamental changes in preparation for the third pregnancy. A woman should be checked by gynecology, get rid of foci of infection, for example, cure all urogenital infections, including sore throat and other ENT diseases, and treat her teeth.

If we are talking about chronic infectious diseases, for example, chronic disease, then it is important to achieve stable remission.

In general, the age of 40 is favorable for a third pregnancy, so deny yourself mother of many children not worth it.

How to get pregnant at 40

The state of the reproductive system at this age makes it quite possible to become pregnant and bear a completely healthy baby. Of course, it may happen that pregnancy at 40 does not occur the first time, but this is possible at 30 and at 20. It has little to do with age.

How to get pregnant at 40? Do you need to do IVF and check the patency of the fallopian tubes? Don't rush into such drastic methods. Everything is much simpler.

First you need to take a blood test for AMH (anti-Mullerian hormone), especially if we are talking about your first pregnancy at 40 years old. Based on its results, you can find out about the condition of the ovaries, that is, whether natural conception is physiologically possible.

The analysis shows the physiological supply of follicles in the ovaries. The lower the AMH level, the lower the chances of getting pregnant. The question immediately arises - how to raise it.

AMH is a hormone that is given to a woman at birth and is used throughout her life. Its reserves are formed at the genetic level, so there is no way to increase the level.

If AMH is within normal limits, then it is important to hurry with conception, even if this is already the second pregnancy at 40 years old. With age, the supply of follicles will be depleted and estrogen production will decrease.

It is also important to track ovulation. This is the most favorable period for conception. To do this, you can use test strips to calculate ovulation. They are sold at the pharmacy.

To increase the likelihood of conception, a gynecologist may prescribe hormonal medications. Correction of hormonal levels and are the main factors for pregnancy.

But it is also necessary to take care of the quality of the seed material. It doesn’t matter if a second or third pregnancy is planned at the age of 40; with age, a man’s reproductive abilities also decrease. 3–5 days before the onset of ovulation, you must stop intimate life to maintain sperm quality.

How is childbirth at 40?

Based on the woman’s age, many doctors recommend delivery by. But surgical intervention is not always justified. When a woman is preparing for childbirth, is healthy and has no contraindications, natural childbirth is quite possible.

Moreover, natural childbirth has a more favorable effect on both the child and the mother. A woman who gives birth naturally will experience lactation faster, while with surgical intervention it may not occur at all. Recovery after childbirth is also much faster than after surgery.

On the other hand, with age, the likelihood of multiple pregnancy and miscarriage increases. In this case, without a doubt, a caesarean section is necessary.

What are the risks of pregnancy at 40?

Undoubtedly, being a mother is wonderful, but there are a number of dangers that can await a woman who decides to take this step at such a mature age. Pregnancy and childbirth at 40 are considered a risk group for the possibility of complications.

Risk for women:

Exacerbation of long-forgotten diseases. The load on the body doubles during gestation, and this can contribute to the exacerbation of chronic diseases. Diseases of the kidneys and cardiovascular system are of particular concern.
Miscarriage. The risk of miscarriage after 40 years reaches 33%. This is due to the aging of the eggs and changes in the structure of the uterus.
Multiple pregnancy. In women who decide to give birth at an older age, the number of cases of twin births is much higher than the number multiple pregnancies in younger women. And this is an additional burden on a weakened body.
Development of diabetes. Diabetes develops in every tenth pregnant woman; the risk of the disease increases with age. develops as a result of active hormonal changes. Mild forms of diabetes do not manifest themselves in any way. The first signs of more severe forms are a feeling of thirst and excessive urination. GDM is dangerous because it contributes to the development of late toxicosis. If this disease is detected, throughout pregnancy it is necessary to adhere to a diet that excludes easily digestible carbohydrates.
Preeclampsia (preeclampsia). Preeclampsia is a serious complication of pregnancy, occupying a leading position among the causes of maternal mortality. It appears only in the later stages. The main symptoms of the disease are increased blood pressure, swelling and the appearance of protein in the urine. Increased blood pressure causes the expectant mother to experience headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Swelling and protein in the urine indicate impaired kidney function. In severe cases, seizures may occur.
Placenta previa – a condition in which the placenta moves into the lower parts of the uterus and partially or completely covers the cervix. In late pregnancy, this condition can lead to bleeding.
Premature placental abruption. One of the reasons is considered to be gestosis.
The occurrence of complications during childbirth - weak labor, risk of rupture of the birth canal due to loss of elasticity.

Risk to the child:

Genetic abnormalities. The most common pathology is trisomnia. Mutation of eggs occurs due to exposure to negative factors on the body. After 40, the risk of having a child with disabilities increases every year.
Hypoxia during childbirth. The development of complications in the mother, such as weak labor, premature placental abruption, can lead to both temporary hypoxia and fetal asphyxia.
Premature birth. Birth between 28 and 37 weeks is called preterm. Children born ahead of schedule, require additional care, and are more susceptible to pathogenic microflora.
Underweight. Hypertension, problems with cardiovascular system may cause a low birth weight baby.

Despite all possible risks, a woman who decides to give birth at an older age has every chance of giving birth to a healthy, strong baby. To do this, she needs to listen to her body as best as possible, visit the doctor more often and healthy image life.

Useful video of pregnancy after 40 years

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Doctors have different opinions about pregnancy at 40 years old. Some of them express their negative attitude towards this issue, while others, on the contrary, foretell a positive outcome. It doesn’t matter whether it is the first or the second pregnancy, it still has great risks for both the health of the mother and her child.

Probability of pregnancy

By the age of 40, a woman’s body gradually begins to prepare for the upcoming menopause. The ratio of hormones changes and metabolic processes worsen. The chance of getting pregnant within one year is 40-50%. This indicator depends on periodic failures in the cycle.

Almost every woman at this age has chronic diseases that can adversely affect the health of the fetus. If this is the first pregnancy, then it can act as a catalyst for the development of previously undetected hereditary diseases. But, if you choose the right approach to this issue, then at this age you can become a happy mother.

Advantages and disadvantages

Before making such a responsible decision, you should carefully weigh all the pros and cons, while relying on competent reviews from doctors.

pros	Minuses
Psychological readiness and responsibility expectant mother	The risk of genetic diseases in the unborn child - Down syndrome
Strong and reliable family	Biological processes occurring in a woman’s body: the gradual onset of menopause and a decrease in the number of eggs capable of fertilization; a decrease in the amount of calcium in a woman’s body, which has a detrimental effect on the development of the baby
Stable financial situation	Difficult and lengthy recovery after childbirth. Women at this age are often recommended to have a caesarean section.
The beneficial effect of pregnancy on the general condition of the body: under the influence of sex hormones it is rejuvenated and restored	Exacerbation of chronic diseases and the possible emergence of previously undetected genetic diseases
Previous life experience	Higher risk of complications during pregnancy: late toxicosis, placental abruption and fetal hypoxia

Risks for the mother and baby

To prevent in time possible complications, you need to be prepared for them in advance.

First pregnancy

If this is the first pregnancy, the woman may face a number of risks:

Risk of miscarriage. Before week 12, this can occur in 30-40% of women over 40 years of age. This depends on a number of factors occurring in the body: a decrease in ovarian activity and reproductive functions, genetic mutations. Previous abortions may also affect this.
Deterioration of carbohydrate metabolism, which leads to gestational diabetes mellitus.
Compaction of the placenta wall. This is due to malfunctions of blood vessels and leads to poor penetration of oxygen and essential nutrients.
Early toxicosis and preeclampsia. Toxicosis occurs in a more severe form. This is due to the fact that the body tolerates metabolic changes worse. In addition, it can develop into preeclampsia, which has the same symptoms as toxicosis, only in a more intense form. In addition, it negatively affects the functioning of the liver, kidneys and brain of the expectant mother and impairs blood circulation in the placenta.
Ectopic pregnancy. It may occur due to malfunction of the fallopian tubes, the presence of adhesions and inflammation in them.
Purulent-septic manifestations. It could be postpartum ulcer, endometritis, myoendometritis, parametritis, metrothrombophlebitis, adnexitis, phlebitis of the veins of the pelvis and lower extremities, pelvioperitonitis.

Complications for the child:

Chromosomal abnormalities. Lead to the presence of Down syndrome in the unborn baby.
Hypoxia during childbirth and pregnancy. Lack of oxygen negatively affects the functioning of all internal organs and the brain.
Birth of a child from 28 to 36 weeks. Premature babies are more susceptible to various diseases in adulthood.

Second pregnancy

Has the same risks and complications as the first. Only in this case the stomach is located slightly lower, since after the first pregnancy the muscles and ligaments of the abdominal cavity are stretched and can no longer support the fetus so well. There is additional pressure on the pelvic organs. This leads to more frequent urination.

Important! Before planning a second pregnancy after 40 years, you should approach the issue of diagnosing the bladder more carefully.

In addition, we should not forget about the possibility of Rh mismatch between mother and child. This happens when the pregnant woman's blood has Rh negative, and the child is positive. The consequence may be a threat of miscarriage or hemolytic disease of the fetus, which occurs in an edematous, icteric and anemic form.

Who shouldn't give birth?

the presence of malignant neoplasms in the body;
cirrhosis of the liver;
renal, respiratory or heart failure;
arterial hypertension 3 degrees;
decompensated diabetes mellitus;
blood diseases;
autoimmune diseases.

Doctors strongly advise expectant mothers to thoroughly prepare for a planned pregnancy:

undergo consultations with a gynecologist, therapist and geneticist;
3-6 months before planning a pregnancy, take all necessary laboratory tests;
give up strong medications (sleeping pills, antidepressants);
start taking additional vitamin complexes after consultation with a gynecologist;
give up bad habits and lead a healthy lifestyle;
adjust your weight;
if necessary, undergo additional examinations of internal organs, spine and pelvic bones.

Forecasts

Pregnancy after 40 years, despite the presence of aggravating factors, can occur without complications and risks for the expectant mother and her child. This directly depends on the psychological readiness of both parents and the medical indicators of the expectant mother.

Elena Malysheva touched on this topic in her program - her opinion is presented in the video below.