It may be harder to get pregnant in your forties than your twenties, but it is usually still quite possible. If you are trying to have a baby in your middle-aged years but finding it difficult to conceive, have patience and don't lose hope. You may be able to get pregnant naturally, or possibly with the help of fertility treatment options. To find out more, read through this guide on how to get pregnant over 40.

More and more women are deciding to bear children later in life. Many spend their younger years establishing themselves in their chosen career paths, or even just having fun and enjoying life before settling down to start a family. Still other women have already had children, but suffer from "empty nest syndrome," or just want the joy of another child in their lives.

Women in their forties are generally mature and financially stable, and are able to provide well for a new baby. The down side is that there are some risks with having a baby at this age. Before making a decision, it is important to weigh the pros and cons.

Having a baby over the age of forty presents certain risks that do not exist (or do, but at a lower rate) for younger women. Before making the final decision to conceive, it is important to know all of the possible things that could go wrong.

1. Older women are more likely to give birth to multiples, even without any fertility drugs
2. Babies have an increased chance of developing Down Syndrome, or other chromosomal defects.
3. Older mothers may gain more weight
4. Pregnancy will be generally harder on the body than for younger women
5. There is a higher risk for miscarriage http://www.parents.com/getting-pregnant/health/age-factor/conceiving-in-your-20s-30s-40s/?page=3

Because there is always the potential for risky side effects with fertility drugs, the best way to begin is by trying to conceive naturally. It may take a while longer than it does with younger women, but that does not mean that it won't happen. Give yourself six months to conceive the old-fashioned way. You can up your chances by:

1. Maintaining a healthy weight
2. Keeping your mind relaxed through yoga or meditation
3. Do not put any artificial chemicals into the vagina--this includes lubricants and even scented feminine protection
4. Make sure your lover does not wear briefs or other tight underwear
5. Have regular sex--shoot for at least every other day, especially near the middle of your menstrual cyclehttp://www.babyhopes.com/articles/getting-pregnant.html

If you have not succeeded in getting pregnant after six months, it may be a good idea to seek treatment from a fertility specialist. Fertility specialists are doctors who can test you for any potential reproductive problems, and prescribe you fertility drugs if necessary.

Fertility drugs are usually hormones that cause the ovaries to release eggs more regularly. Some types actually cause more than one egg to be released at a time. Once eggs are released, they are sent down the fallopian tubes, where they may be fertilized by sperm.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.