Can You Get Pregnant with IVF After 40? Success Rates and Expert Tips

IVF After 40

As more women choose to pursue motherhood later in life, the demand for advanced fertility treatments after 40 has significantly increased. In vitro fertilisation (IVF) offers hope for many women in their 40s, despite the natural decline in fertility that comes with age. While achieving pregnancy after 40 can be more challenging, advances in assisted reproductive technology have made it increasingly possible.

For women over 40, the IVF process is largely the same as for younger patients—ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer. However, ovarian response, egg quality, and implantation rates tend to be lower in older women. That’s why IVF protocols after 40 often include more tailored approaches, including preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and supplemental support to improve embryo quality and uterine receptivity.

With proper guidance and realistic expectations, IVF after 40 is not only possible—it can lead to a healthy pregnancy and live birth, especially when managed by an experienced fertility team.

Success Rates of IVF After the Age of 40: What Do the Numbers Say?

Age is one of the most influential factors in fertility, and IVF outcomes reflect that reality. According to global IVF success statistics over 40, the chances of pregnancy decline steadily with each passing year due to diminished ovarian reserve and a higher likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs.

On average:

• At age 40, the live birth rate per IVF cycle is around 15–20%.
  
• At age 42, success rates drop to 10% or less.
  
• By age 44 and beyond, the chance of pregnancy with one’s own eggs may fall below 5%.
  

These numbers can sound discouraging, but it’s important to remember that they reflect general fertility rates in older women—not the outcomes of personalized, high-precision treatment. Advances like PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy), improved embryo culture methods, and refined stimulation protocols are steadily improving the chances of pregnancy with IVF at 40 and beyond.

Additionally, some women may consider donor eggs as an option, which can significantly increase success rates. Still, many women over 40 have achieved successful pregnancies using their own eggs—particularly with the help of experienced clinics and individualized care plans.

The Challenges and Considerations of Undergoing IVF After 40

Pursuing IVF after the age of 40 comes with a unique set of challenges and considerations—both biological and emotional. The most significant factor is age-related fertility decline. As women age, the quantity and quality of their eggs naturally decrease, leading to lower fertilization rates, increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities, and reduced embryo viability.

Additionally, older women are more likely to face pregnancy-related health risks, including:

• Higher chances of miscarriage
  
• Increased risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension
  
• Greater likelihood of requiring cesarean delivery
  
• Elevated risk of genetic conditions such as Down syndrome
  

There are also emotional and logistical aspects to consider. IVF can be a physically and mentally demanding process, and for women over 40, the pressure to succeed in fewer cycles can intensify stress. Health considerations for older mothers also involve pre-existing conditions that may complicate both fertility treatment and pregnancy itself.

Expert Tips to Increase Your Chances of a Successful Pregnancy with IVF Over 40

While IVF success rates decline with age, certain strategies can significantly improve outcomes for women over 40—especially when guided by a specialist with advanced experience in treating older patients.

One such expert, Op. Dr. Deniz Gökalp, applies a personalized and evidence-based approach that includes advanced technologies like PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy). PGT- A helps identify chromosomally normal embryos, adding the liability of successful implantation and reducing confinement threat — particularly precious in women over 40, where chromosomal abnormalities are more common.

Dr. Gökalp also incorporates modern techniques such as the Piezo-ICSI (Piezoelectric Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) method, which allows for more gentle and precise fertilization. This can be especially beneficial in cases involving delicate or lower-quality eggs.

In addition to technology, experts emphasize the importance of optimising fertility health through lifestyle. Here are some widely recommended tips:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3s, and essential vitamins (like CoQ10 and folate)
  
• Manage stress levels with mindfulness, sleep hygiene, and emotional support
  
• Avoid smoking, excessive caffeine, and alcohol
  
• Regular, moderate exercise to support circulation and hormone balance
  
• Complete any necessary preconception screenings to rule out underlying conditions
  

Most importantly, choose a fertility clinic and medical team that specializes in treating older women and provides tailored care rather than one-size-fits-all protocols.

A combination of medical innovation and lifestyle optimization can dramatically shift the odds. With the right support, many women over 40 can and do experience successful IVF pregnancies.