Is There a Maximum Age for IVF?
Today it’s not unheard of for women to have children well into their 40s. Some choose to delay motherhood to focus on their careers while others may simply be waiting for the right conditions. Whatever the reason, trying to become pregnant later in life can be a struggle. In vitro fertilization (IVF) can help overcome fertility issues and make parenthood a reality.
One thing women who have waited to have children may wonder is whether there’s an IVF maximum age. Servicing Encino, CA, Bakersfield, CA, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding areas, Dr. Nurit Winkler and Dr. Marc Kalan are happy to answer this question and any other questions you may have during a personal consultation.
Is There a Maximum Age Limit for IVF?
There isn’t a standard maximum age for IVF. It can and has been performed on women in their late 40s and 50s. With that said, success rates decrease with patient age and the risk of pregnancy complications increases.
As a result, the general upper age limit for IVF is somewhere between the early to mid-40s. However, women who are past their mid-40s may be good candidates for IVF depending on their health and other considerations.
Pregnancy Risks Increase with Age
One of the biggest reasons that older women may not be good candidates for IVF is the increased risk and complications associated with pregnancy in women over 40. Older women considering pregnancy need to be aware of these risks and complications, such as:
- Increased risk of gestational diabetes
- Increased risk of preeclampsia
- Increased risk of miscarriage
- Increased risk of genetic abnormalities
Can Women Over 40 Have Successful IVF Pregnancies?
Although there may be increased risks associated with pregnancy in older women, it is possible for women over 40 to have healthy, successful pregnancies with IVF.
Women who are still menstruating may be able to use their own eggs keeping in mind that egg quality and quantity drastically decline every year after the mid to late 30s. As a result, there may not be a sufficient amount of quality eggs to use for IVF. Additionally, if older eggs are used and successfully fertilized, they are more likely to have difficulty implanting, which can make it challenging for women of advanced age to become pregnant.
In order for a woman over 40 to have a successful pregnancy through IVF it’s often recommended that younger eggs are used. These eggs may be her own that were frozen when she was younger or, if her eggs weren’t frozen, eggs from a donor may provide the best chances for pregnancy.
Schedule an Appointment at Los Angeles Reproductive Center
Don’t let your age stop you from speaking with our doctors about your options. IVF does not have a maximum age limit. If you are ready to start a family or want to take steps now to have a family in the future, our doctors can help with your family planning and fertility needs. Call our office at (818) 946-8051 to schedule a consultation.