IVF in women over 40

Age can affect egg number and egg quality, while other factors such as ovarian reserve, sperm health, previous pregnancies, medical conditions and earlier treatment also shape the plan. Tests may include hormone assessment, ultrasound and review of both partners’ history.

The clinic may discuss whether to use eggs collected in treatment, previously stored eggs or donor eggs, depending on your circumstances and local requirements. Embryo testing, transfer timing and the number of embryos considered are specialist decisions; ask what each option can and cannot show.

Bring a list of medicines, diagnoses, operations, pregnancy history and prior fertility treatment. Ask for a clear sequence of scans, injections, egg collection, laboratory work, transfer and testing, while recognising that the plan may change with monitoring results.

Review health factors that can affect pregnancy, including blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems and medications that may need adjustment. Ask about folic acid, vaccinations and pre-pregnancy checks. The IVF guide explains the treatment pathway and can help you prepare terminology for the appointment.

During stimulation or after a procedure, contact the clinic promptly for severe or worsening pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, faintness, fever, repeated vomiting, rapid abdominal swelling or breathing difficulty. These symptoms need clinical assessment at any age and should not be attributed to age alone.

Ask how your ovarian reserve and medical history affect the available options, whether additional testing is useful, what alternatives exist if few eggs are retrieved, and how pregnancy risks will be monitored. Ask for realistic next steps rather than relying on a single headline result.