Pregnancy after 40

[Fatima O]

Aslm everyone. Just want to know what is the opinion out there of having a baby after 40. I'm 41 and wish to fall pregnant, but have been getting conflicting views.

[Joburger]

You do not say if you have any other children. If you have experience of bringing up other children then it may be easier to take care of another child, but without such prior experience it becomes more challenging the older you are - I know this is a generalisation. Some women are less patient as they grow older. If you have other children, you need to consider how they will react to a pregnancy. If you have a teenage daughter she may be embarrassed (or elated) at having another sibling. As regards health issues, you may want to chat to your gynae. With medical developments, having a baby after 40 has become less riskier for you and the child, but some women may be more prone to risks than others. Finally, think about your ability to cope with the stresses and strains of pregnancy and bringing up a child. Some women are very pleased to be the oldest mum in the playground, but others feel embarrassed.
Here is an interesting article:
http://www.babycenter.com/0_age-and-fertility-getting-pregnant-in-your-40s_1494699.bc

[Joburger]

Here is an interesting article:
http://www.babycenter.com/0_age-and-fertility-getting-pregnant-in-your-40s_1494699.bc