In a society where turning 40 without a partner but with the dream of becoming a mother may seem challenging, we want to remind you that this stage is not the end, but the beginning of a journey full of hope. Here you will find clear and approachable information about your fertility options and how Ingenes accompanies you step by step.
How does being 40 affect my fertility and what can I do?
At 40, ovarian reserve decreases by about 3% each year after 35, but that doesn’t close the door on motherhood. At Ingenes we analyze your hormonal profile, anti-Müllerian hormone levels (AMH in ng/mL) and antral follicle count (AFC) to offer you a fully personalized plan.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most effective alternatives. In this process, sperm and eggs are combined in 2 mL of culture medium per egg and cultured to the blastocyst stage. With implantation rates that can exceed 40% in women under 42, stories like this experience show how encouraging the journey can be.
What is egg donation and when is it recommended?
Egg donation involves using eggs from a young, healthy donor for IVF. It’s ideal if your AMH is below 1 ng/mL or if you’ve had failed implantation attempts.
At Ingenes we support you from donor selection, genetic testing (PGT-A) and cycle synchronization, to embryo transfer. Cases like this single mother at 43 speak of positive results and renewed confidence.
How can I prepare for motherhood after 40?
Becoming a mom at 40 requires emotional and practical preparation. Adjust your home to welcome the baby and organize your routine with 8 hours of sleep and moments for yourself.
Consult a nutritionist: a diet of 1,800–2,200 kcal daily, with 1.2 g/kg of protein, 400 µg of folic acid and 18 mg of iron. A reproductive endocrinologist will adjust doses and supplements and remind you not to self-medicate.
Why is emotional support essential?
Waiting, hormones and results can generate anxiety. At Ingenes we have psychologists who use cognitive-behavioral therapy so you can manage stress and strengthen your resilience.
A MedlinePlus study (2022) shows that emotional support improves treatment adherence by 30%. Remember: before taking any medication, consult a reproductive specialist.
What are the risks and benefits of being a mother after 40?
Risks include preeclampsia or gestational diabetes (up to 20%) and a slight increase in chromosomal abnormalities. That’s why we recommend non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and, if necessary, amniocentesis.
Benefits include economic and emotional stability, greater maturity and a consolidated support network, which make parenting easier.
How do I care for my mental health during the process?
Mental health is as key as physical health. Practice mindfulness or prenatal yoga to lower cortisol by up to 25%. Join support groups: sharing removes loneliness.
If you experience emotional swings, seek professional help. At Ingenes we collaborate with perinatal psychiatrists who provide the necessary support under supervision.
What physical health habits promote a healthy pregnancy?
Do moderate exercise (30 minutes daily of walking or swimming) and periodic check-ups with your gynecologist. Monitor your blood pressure and glucose every trimester.
Avoid tobacco and alcohol, limit caffeine to 200 mg/day and maintain a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 kg/m² to optimize implantation.
How to financially plan motherhood as a single mother at 40?
The cost of IVF with egg donation ranges from USD 8,000 to 12,000. Add consultations, hormones (~USD 1,200 per cycle) and genetic tests.
Create a monthly budget that includes childcare, insurance and emergency savings. A financial advisor can help you plan long term.
Choosing to become a mother at 40 is an act of courage. At Ingenes we support you with cutting-edge technology and comprehensive care: emotional, physical and financial. We’re here to turn your dream into reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the success rate of IVF in 40-year-old women?
The average success rate of IVF in 40-year-old women ranges from 25% to 35% per cycle. With advanced techniques like PGT-A, Ingenes has reached up to 40% in optimal cases. Every case is unique; your personalized protocol can improve these results.
How long does the entire assisted reproduction process take?
From initial analysis to embryo transfer takes 4 to 6 weeks: hormone studies, ultrasounds every 3–4 days, ovarian stimulation with FSH/LH and follicular puncture under local anesthesia. With egg donation it can extend to 8 weeks due to cycle synchronization.
Is the follicular puncture procedure painful?
It is performed under local anesthesia or light sedation, and most experience minimal discomfort. After the procedure you may have cramps or swelling that resolve in 24–48 hours. We prescribe paracetamol 500 mg every 6 hours and recommend relative rest for 48 hours. Our team is available 24/7.
Can I donate my own eggs if successful and share them with other women?
At Ingenes we follow anonymity and consent guidelines. A patient may not donate her eggs after a personal cycle. However, you can participate in “solidarity donation” programs after a 3-month recovery period and medical and psychological criteria are met.
Sources
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2023). Fertility Facts and Figures. https://www.asrm.org/
- MedlinePlus. (2022). Assisted Reproductive Technology. https://medlineplus.gov/assistedreproductivetechnology.html
- Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2021). Role of Donor Egg IVF. Fertility and Sterility, 115(2), 301–307. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.12.031
- World Health Organization. (2020). WHO recommendations on infertility interventions. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241550173
We accompany you at every step of this journey. If you have questions or want to start your treatment, consult an assisted reproduction specialist. We’re here to help you fulfill your dream of becoming a mother or father!