The desire to have a child doesn’t always arise at the same time. Some couples want a child early on, others only later. These days, becoming pregnant at the age of 40 or over is by no means an exception. On the contrary: for many women and couples, it is a conscious decision that has been carefully considered. After all, as we get older, our outlook on life changes. You have already experienced a great deal, achieved career goals and built a stable relationship. For many, having a child is the next step. But at the same time, questions arise: Is it already too late? Will it still work out? How do I deal with potential risks? And it is not uncommon to receive well-meaning comments from those around you that can cause uncertainty. Ultimately, however, it is not about what others think is right, but about what feels right for you.
With this article, we would like to encourage you, provide you with information and show you that the desire to have children can and should have its place even in the phase of life from the age of 40 onwards.
Life after 40 brings new perspectives and challenges
Anyone considering having a child at 40 or later has something that isn’t quite as pronounced in younger years: life experience. The relationship is often built on a stable foundation, and most couples know exactly what matters to them and where their priorities lie. They tend to deal with the challenges of everyday life in a calmer and more considered way. This includes the challenges that come with having children.
However, many women worry that they can no longer conceive naturally. But first, the good news: pregnancy is still possible at this age and beyond, although the likelihood decreases with every passing year.
Female fertility begins to decline significantly from the age of 36. There is a biological reason for this: the average life expectancy of our ancestors was around 35 years. Evolutionarily speaking, the body is not designed for late reproduction. At 35, the chance of becoming pregnant per cycle is 20 to 25 per cent. By 40, it is only around 10 per cent.
The risk of miscarriage also rises: at 40, around one in three pregnancies ends in miscarriage; at 45, it is as high as one in two. The likelihood of genetic defects in the child also increases.
This may sound discouraging at first. However, it is important to be aware of these figures so that you are well-informed and can decide which steps make sense for you.
When the body needs support
For many women, getting pregnant at 40 is possible naturally. Sometimes it takes a little longer. And sometimes a little medical support is simply needed. Every woman and every couple is different. That is why, at the Dr Loimer Fertility Clinic in Linz, we always provide personalised support on your journey to having the child you desire. Through thorough fertility testing, we assess your individual situation. Building on this, we discuss the options available and which steps make sense for you personally.
We take the time to answer your questions. And we know that every journey is different. That is why we do not offer standard solutions, but rather personalised support. Always at your own pace and without any pressure. If you would like to find out more, please feel free to contact us.
April 2026