How old is too old to have a child?

Generally speaking, a woman’s fertility declines after 35 and falls sharply after 40. Once past 40, pregnant women are at greater risk of miscarriage, medical difficulties like pregnancy-related diabetes or pre-eclampsia, and difficult labours. Mothers over 40 are also more likely to have babies with chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders, though there are antenatal tests that can be undertaken to assess the risk of these. That said, Iris has cared for pregnant women who conceived naturally at 46, and has successfully treated IVF patients who were 44. Age is a very important factor, but doesn’t totally rule out your chances.

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