(Spoiler: Yes, You Absolutely Can)
Um, yeah. Duh.
Oh, wait. I’m sorry. Did you go to a school district that banned sex ed?
[Editor’s note: that may, in fact, be all U.S. school districts now.]
So, why are you Googling this?
- Because you want to be pregnant, but someone—a doctor, a co-worker, or an in-law—told you you’re “too old”?
- Because you had a one-night stand last night (good for you!) and just like 20 years ago, you’re feeling less than confident in your birth control methods?
- Because you’re exploring assisted reproductive technologies (ART), like IUI, IVF, donor eggs, embryos, or surrogacy?
Whatever brought you here, welcome. You’re not alone.
If You’re Wondering about the Birds and the Bees …
This is not that kind of blog. Although, maybe that’s a niche we should explore? Sound off in the comments, please.
If You’re Considering Assisted Reproduction…
Yes, you can absolutely get pregnant at 40—with help or without. Donor eggs? Yep. IVF? Common. Surrogacy? An option. The list goes on.
Feeling overwhelmed? Totally normal.
Our best advice: Talk to someone. A friend. A therapist. A supportive family member. A fertility expert (your first consult is often free—but your Googling will quickly reveal it won’t stay that way).
If It Was a One-Night Stand…
We’ve all been there. This is a judgment-free zone.
Talk to someone—your doctor, your pharmacist (in some states), a friend, or a mental health pro if you’re feeling anxious. Whatever the next step, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
If You’re Just Curious (or a Little Nervous)…
If you’re wondering what it would be like to be pregnant at 40-something, you’ve come to the right place. And if someone made you feel too old to even contemplate the idea of being a late bloomer parent, well, the numbers don’t lie.
Let’s be clear: Pregnancy at 40 isn’t rare anymore. In fact, for the first time in recorded history, more women over 35 are giving birth than teenagers.
I should know—I’m one of them.
So, yes, I’m 40-something, and I could get pregnant. I probably could again (hold on, I said this wasn’t that kind of blog). That is, until my vagina turns on me, a.k.a. menopause.
Join us Fridays for a smile break at the end of your week: the Advance Maternal: Quick Wit series. Start your weekend off right with a little levity.