• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Pregnancy

Is Natural Conception and Pregnancy Over 40 Possible?

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
July 22, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

More and more, women over 40 are contacting us for assistance in achieving natural conception and a healthy term pregnancy. Here is an example of what we commonly hear…

β€œI’m not sure if I can get help as I’m 45 years old and although I have never tried for a baby before as I never met anyone. I feel it might be too late to conceive naturally. Has anyone you have helped been successful in this? I want to feel positive but I may just be asking for more heartache….”

While these exact words may not ring true for all women who desire to have a child over 40, there is one line that brings up a fear ALL of these women have in common: β€œI feel it might be too late to conceive naturally.”

Is Natural Conception and Pregnancy Over 40 a Reality?

It is really challenging to say, as each woman is different in regards to her current health, health history and life circumstance. We do know that it is still possible for some women, generally in the 40-43 age range. Fertility over 40 declines naturally, therefore realistically, yes, the likelihood of natural conception over 40 is going to decline each year, as a woman moves closer to menopause.

Knowing your fertility status is the key to help you determine the likelihood of conception – natural or through medical assistance, with your own eggs, or not.

There are several things that need to be thoroughly thought through:

  • The impact of age-related health on you and your child.
  • Most women over 40 will need some sort of assistance to help achieve pregnancy.
  • Modern statistical evidence of term pregnancies for women over 40 come from studies performed on women who underwent IVF, not women who conceived naturally. Researchers aren’t tracking natural conception over 40; it is just too challenging to track in large populations.
  • The financial and emotional strain of fertility treatments.

Common fertility concerns for women over 40:

  • Poor egg health
  • Low ovarian reserve
  • Hormone imbalance or hormone changes related to perimenopause and menopause
  • The likelihood of natural conception
  • Going for IVF
  • Age cut-off for using own eggs for IVF
  • Considering alternatives such as egg donor or embryo adoption
  • Preparing for parenting at an older age
  • Wanting a child, but still not finding the right male partner – sperm donation
  • Increased risk of miscarriage
  • Increased risk of birth defects or developmental problems for the child
  • Infertility-related depression, a sense of loss of control
  • Increased risk of pregnancy related problems

What is the Likelihood of Conception over the Age of 40?

Doctors determine a woman’s ability to conceive naturally, or through IVF with her own eggs, by running a hormone profile. If you are already 40, or over, and haven’t been to see a doctor to have a full hormone profile run, it’s time! Make that appointment right away. Knowing this information is critical, as time is of the essence. The reason this is so important is because it helps your doctor and other healthcare providers know the status of your egg health and ovarian reserve: two very important factors for conception. This will help you and your health care providers to know the best options for you to achieve pregnancy.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

FSH levels show us the quality of egg health and ovarian reserve. For women aged 20 – 35, FSH levels are typically between 5 and 20 IU/L throughout the menstrual cycle, peaking mid-cycle. Some doctors feel that a level higher than 10-15 IU/L indicates diminished ovarian reserve. According to the Center for Human Reproduction though, it is not as cut and dry as many clinics make it out to be:

β€œThe younger the patient the better our chances will be to still achieve pregnancy with use of a woman’s own eggs even if FSH is high. Therefore if a woman in her 20s has an FSH in the 20s, not great, but she still likely will end up conceiving … with our treatment approach the same high FSH level in a 43 – 44 year old is much more ominous, therefore what represents a maximum FSH level is relative depending on age and other surrounding factors. Approximately 1/3 of women who come to us because they were told that their only chance of pregnancy is through donor eggs leave us pregnant with the use of their own eggs, so a minority but still quite a significant portion of patients with very, very poor ovarian reserve and usually quite high FSH with appropriate treatment at CHR will still have a very decent pregnancy chance.” – Norbert Gleicher, MD Center for Human Reproduction, NY, NY.

Basically what Dr. Gleicher is saying, if you have very high FSH levels and are over the age of 40, the likelihood of achieving pregnancy with your own eggs is going to be very challenging.

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)

This test is used to determine ovarian reserve. Low to very low levels (0.1 – 0.6 ng/ml) are used to help a doctor decide if a woman is a good candidate for IVF, or for other treatment. The lower the numbers, the lower the ovarian reserve and the lower the chances of successful stimulation of enough follicles for IVF.

Estrogen and Progesterone

While FSH and AMH help determine egg health and ovarian reserve, low or imbalanced levels of estrogen and progesterone may indicate troubles with implantation. Should a woman achieve conception, but have poor estrogen or progesterone levels, miscarriage is likely to occur due to an inadequate uterine lining.

The good news is that for many women, hormone levels can be positively influenced through improved nutrition, healthy lifestyle changes, and specific natural therapies. A great place to begin is by reading our hormone health guide…

Why Fertility Doctors Often Turn Women Over 43 Away

Many fertility clinics are hesitant or will not work with women over a certain age. They determine this by the statistical success rates they track each year. They wouldn’t suggest this upper age limit if women with advanced maternal age were achieving higher live birth rates.

Consider this…

  • IVF age limits may be different at each clinic.
  • The general age limit for use of a woman’s own eggs for IVF across the US is between the age of 42 and 45.
  • Most IVF clinics will help women through the age of 50, if they choose to use donor eggs or embryo adoption.

According to the Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago, β€œAt the age of 44 and above there are almost never babies born from IVF using the female’s own eggs – the success rate using eggs over the age 44 is about 1% per attempt.”

Achieving Pregnancy Over 40

β€œI have read the statistics, I have read about some women achieving natural conception in their mid to late forties and even early 50s, I believe that it is possible for me. Basically, all the doctors are saying they can’t help me, I am too old. Can you help me?”

For women over 40 who contact us and/or choose to work with us through our private consultation program, we may suggest they work in conjunction with a medical fertility specialist who is skilled in alternative reproductive technologies (ART) such as IVF, ICSI and even possibly egg, sperm or embryo donor (adoption) clinics. We strive to provide our clients with a well-rounded perspective that will give them all the options for actually achieving their goal – to become pregnant and to become a parent.

The realization that natural conception and pregnancy may not happen can be heartbreaking, but according to all the couples we work with, it is best to try, than not try at all. Take the time to properly prepare for pregnancy. We encourage all people we work with to have an open heart and mind! It is a very valuable tool to be level-headed when making the decision to become a parent and reviewing all the options for your age group in achieving that goal!

Click here to learn about the many paths to parenthood that are available for infertility…

Only you can determine what is best for your life and for your body. Should you choose to move forward and have a child of your own, that is your very personal choice.

We strive to support women’s health on all levels, and if a woman wants to try for a baby over the age of 40, we are here to help them improve their health to increase their chances of a healthy pregnancy and baby – however that is achieved.

Click here to learn the healthiest ways to prepare for conception over 40…

References

  • Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago. (n.d.). Fertility After Age 40 – IVF in the 40s. Retrieved from: http://www.advancedfertility.com/fertility-after-age-40-ivf.htm
  • Gleicher, N. (2018). Getting Pregnant after 40. Retrieved from: https://www.centerforhumanreprod.com/infertilityedu/causes/getting-pregnant-after-40/
  • Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago. (n.d.). Anti-Mullerian Hormone Testing of Ovarian Reserve. Retrieved from: https://www.advancedfertility.com/amh-fertility-test.htm
  • Twenge, J. (2013). How Long Can You Wait to Have a Baby? Retrieved from: http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2013/07/how-long-can-you-wait-to-have-a-baby/309374/

Β« Previous Post
Success Story: Susan’s Trying Journey to Achieve a Second Pregnancy
Next Post Β»
How to Have a Healthy Pregnancy - 5 Ways to Ensure a Healthy 2nd Trimester

About the Author

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000's of women on their journey to Motherhood.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 31

Open
This is my go-to breakfast that I have everyday. Filled with healthy fats, tons of fiber and maybe the tastiest thing you will eat all day. Recipe coming soon!

*I only defrost the fruit because it is frozen. You can use fresh fruit and there is no need to "defrost".

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 30

Open
It's better to start today rather than wait until tomorrow...

Wondering how to get started? 

You have a couple of options πŸ‘‡πŸ½

➑️ Type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the steps you can take to support your fertility cycle. 

➑️ Check out my website and follow one of my hundreds of guides. 

➑️ Book a consultation and have a custom fertility program created for you.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 30

Open
The Drop Cycle Methodβ„’ Program includes:

➑️ Drop Cycle Methodβ„’ Workshop: Led by Hethir Rodriguez, this in-depth, step-by-step workshop teaches you the fundamentals of self-acupressure and aromatherapy for fertility.

➑️ Fertilica Acu-Penβ„’: Effortlessly perform self-acupressure with this innovative tool, featuring two interchangeable heads for precision and comfort.

➑️ Radiant Wombβ„’ Essential Oil Blend: Specially designed for the follicular phase (the first two weeks of your cycle), this therapeutic blend encourages a calming mood, promotes relaxation, supports estrogen balance, and increases circulation to the uterus and ovaries, nurturing a healthy uterine lining.

➑️ Calm Wombβ„’ Essential Oil Blend: Ideal for the luteal phase (generally the last two weeks of the cycle), this comforting and supportive blend helps to bring a sense of tranquility and well-being during this important phase of your cycle.

➑️ FertiliClearβ„’ Essential Oil Blend: Formulated to support cleansing and detoxification while reducing inflammation within the reproductive system, this blend stimulates liver function, promotes detoxification, encourages the reduction of inflammation, and supports hormone health and balance. Use daily, all month long. If you are actively TTC, discontinue use after ovulation.

➑️ Instruction Cards for the Drop Cycle Method Routine: Easily locate and stimulate the correct acupressure points with these informative cards, featuring detailed instructions for each of the four Drop Cycle Method routines: Follicular Phase, Luteal Phase, Menstrual Phase, and Cleansing Phase.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 30

Open
Womb Care Therapeutic Castor oil kit is a powerful tool that includes a special blend of organic castor oil and organic therapeutic essential oils designed to enhance circulation, promote detoxification and support healing wherever it is applied.

The Womb Care Castor oil Kit is a natural and effective solution for promoting reproductive health and easing pelvic discomfort in women. 

Womb Care Castor Oil Packs are a simple, yet powerful, natural therapy that involves applying essential oil infused castor oil to a cotton flannel and placing it on the skin. The pack is then covered with our wrap. While wearing the wrap, the properties in the castor oil are absorbed and used by the body to increase circulation and promote detoxification, while nourishing the skin and underlying tissues.

If you're looking for a natural way to enhance circulation, promote detoxification, and support reproductive health, Womb Careβ„’ Therapeutic Castor Oil Packs help to cleanse the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about Womb Care Therapeutic Castor Oil Packs for fertility type PACK in the comments below and I will send you a link to my workshop.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 29

Open
Here is how to prepare you Womb Care Castor Oil Pack for the first time. 

Womb Care Wraps make regular castor oil packs soooo easy. 

πŸ‘‰ If you’d like to learn more about Womb Care Castor Oil Packs and how to use them for supporting reproductive health type β€œPACK” in the comments and I’ll send you a link to my Castor Oil Packs Introduction.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 28

Open
Designed to help you experience:

Regular cycles and overcome:
➑️ Lack of ovulation
➑️ Short/Long luteal or follicular phase
➑️ Cycles longer than 35 days

Healthy menstrual cycles and overcome:
➑️ PMS, cramps, mood swings
➑️ Heavy, light, or missing periods
➑️ Spotting

Healthy circulation to reproductive organs and:
➑️ Improve uterine lining and support implantation
➑️ Improve cervical mucus
➑️ Support cleansing and detoxification
➑️ Stress support

For anyone seeking to support general reproductive health as well. πŸŒΏπŸ’•

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 27

Open
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture. 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body's energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Self-Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle. 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 26

Open
Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems.

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 25

Open
By nourishing our bodies, minds, and spirits, we can create a fertile ground for our fertility to thrive, and a life that is rich with meaning, purpose, and joy.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 25

Open
Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems. 

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 25

Open
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture.Β 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body’s energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle.Β 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts.Β 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you’d like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 24

Open
To best support your fertility, having a clear understanding of the monthly fertility cycles can make a big difference. 

Swipe through to learn about the different cycles and which fertility products and therapies are best to use for each cycle. 

Save or share if you found this guide helpful.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 23

Open
My newest Fertility Therapy for fertility support!

Drop Cycle Method is and all-in-one solution combines the ancient wisdom of self-acupressure with the natural healing properties of essential oils to support each stage of your fertility cycle. 

Experience a natural, holistic approach to enhancing your chances of conception and overall well-being.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 23

Open
Introducing my carefully crafted blends designed to support you throughout your fertility journey. Discover the transformative benefits of each blend and find harmony within your cycle.

1️⃣ Radiant Wombβ„’: Embrace the first two weeks of your cycle with this specially formulated blend. Crafted using 100% organic essential oils, it encourages a calming mood, supports hormone balance, and increases circulation to the uterus and ovaries. Nurture a healthy uterine lining and radiate fertility from within.

2️⃣ Calm Wombβ„’: Step into the luteal phase with tranquility and well-being. This 100% organic comforting blend provides a sense of calm and support during this crucial implantation phase. Embrace the journey with a peaceful heart and invite harmony into your womb.

3️⃣ FertiliClearβ„’: Give your reproductive system the cleanse support and detoxification it deserves. With this 100% organic blend, experience the power of stimulating healthy liver function, promoting detoxification, and reducing inflammation. Create a fertile environment by embracing the body's natural ability to heal and rejuvenate.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 22

Open
A healthy lifestyle is not just a path to a better body, but a path to a better life, where we can manifest our deepest desires and wildest dreams.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 22

Open
Here are my favorite 7 essential oils for hormone balance and how to safely use them. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 21

Open
πŸ₯š In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age. 

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🀯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➑️ Proper circulation
➑️ A healthy fertility cycle
➑️ Balanced hormones
➑️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. 

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days. 

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now. 

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI. 

πŸ™‚ The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.πŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 20

Open
Did you know that you can use therapeutic essential oils to help support hormonal health?

Yes you can, but keep a few things in mind...

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Quality of the essential oils
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper use and timing (there are certain essential oils to avoid after ovulation)
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper dilution

πŸ™ŒπŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 20

Open
πŸ‘‹πŸ½ Unlocking the Power of Reflexology for the Endocrine System 🌟

Step into the world of healing self-care as we dive deep into reflexology and its incredible impact on the endocrine system! πŸ‘‹πŸ½βœ¨

1️⃣ Balance: Discover the key reflex points on your hands that correspond to the thyroid, pituitary, and liver. By stimulating these points through reflexology, we can support these vital systems for optimal hormonal health.

2️⃣ Thyroid Harmony: By focusing on the thyroid reflexes, we aim to regulate the thyroid gland's function. Balancing thyroid activity can enhance hormone production and improve overall fertility health.

3️⃣ Pituitary Vitality: The pituitary gland, known as the master gland, plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive hormones. Reflexology can help stimulate the pituitary reflexes, promoting hormonal balance and supporting fertility.

4️⃣ Liver Rejuvenation: The liver is responsible for detoxification and hormone metabolism. Through reflexology, we can enhance liver function, aiding in the removal of toxins and promoting hormonal balance for improved fertility.

5️⃣ Holistic Fertility Support: By supporting the thyroid, pituitary, and liver through reflexology, we create an optimal environment for fertility. Balanced hormone levels, improved detoxification, and enhanced hormonal regulation contribute to overall reproductive well-being.

🌟 Embrace the transformative power of reflexology and unlock the secrets to supporting your endocrine health for improved fertility.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
There are so many great ways to use essential oils to help support fertility and reproductive health. The main uses I focus on are:

🌼 Hormone health
🌼 Period health
🌼 Regulate a cycle
🌼 Reduce stress
🌼 Detoxification and regular cleansing

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Products

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us