I am 41 years old and I am trying to get pregnant. Please advise.

As you are probably already aware, conceiving after 40 has its share of difficulties and complications. Your body and reproductive system are both ageing, which leads to some drop in fertility levels. In some cases, there is a higher risk of deformed fetuses and genetic abnormalities (such as Down’s syndrome). You may also suffer from labor complications, especially if you are unfit or overweight. If this your first pregnancy, the risks only get higher. However, there is a flip side; many medical experts believe that a woman in her 40s can be a better mother due to her maturity and experience in dealing with stress. In any case, it is strongly advised that you consult with your gynecologist and share a list of the drugs and supplements take you use regularly. Your gynecologist will also want to know your medical history (including family history) to ensure that you do not have any medical conditions such as diabetes that can impact your chances of conceiving.

If you have been using oral contraceptives (pills) as a form of birth control, you need to stop taking them at least 3 months before you plan to conceive. This is because the hormones in the pill disrupt and modify your body’s natural menstrual cycle and hence your fertility periods. In most women, the second and third weeks after the start of menstrual bleeding are the most fertile, with the highest chances of conception with a healthy partner. After sex, many women attempt to increase the likelihood of a successful conception by drawing the knees up to their chest and ‘hugging’ for a few minutes. You can also try modifying your diet and lifestyle to help conception. First, stay away from alcohol and recreational drugs; your fetus is especially vulnerable in the first weeks of pregnancy. Alcohol can also affect your ovulation (formation of a mature egg) making it more difficult to conceive. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine-based drinks like tea, coffee, or cola. You should also stay away from raw or undercooked seafood, eggs, meat, or poultry.

Certain fish ((including swordfish, shark, and king mackerel) have high levels of methyl mercury, which can damage your fetus’ nervous system. Include green, leafy vegetables (such as spinach, collard and turnip greens, and broccoli) that are a good source of folic acid (folate), which helps to develop a healthy central nervous system in the fetus. Stay well-hydrated and healthy; drink at least 8 glasses of water or fresh fruit juice or vegetable soup.

answered by G M

Your age may be a possible reason for you not getting pregnant, but don’t lose hopes as many women at this age or at even older than this age have had successful pregnancies. Take help from a gynecologist, as when you plan to conceive it is very important to ovulate every month and have a proper hormonal balance. Besides you can try these simple tips which may be helpful for you to conceive.

Lose weight if you are above your ideal body weight.
Winter cherry herb is very useful for fertility. Along with a cup of milk take 1 tsp of powdered winter cherry herb for 5-6 nights after menstruation.
Spend fruitful time with your husband. Missionary position (men on top) is considered best for conceiving. After ejaculation, lie in bed for 15 minutes.
Avoid any kind of stress especially psychological stress. Quit smoking, (if at all you smoke) as it alters the hormonal balance in body.

answered by S P

Treatment to conceive

I am 41 yrs old and I am trying to get pregnant. Please advise.