Likelihood of Positive Outcome for Pregnancy after 45

[Lindy450]

I'm a 47 year old woman, and possibly pregnant.  I was not trying to become pregnant and am somewhat surprised.  I had planned to look into getting my tubes tied in January with my husband's new insurance.  I am very much aware of increased risks, chance of Down Syndrome, miscarriage, etc.  Most of the information I have read on pregnancy at my age is negative.  I also knew a mother who became pregnant at age 46 or 47, found out the child had Down Syndrome and aborted at 5 or 6 months.  The chances of naturally becoming pregnant are near zero, and there's a substantial chance of having a deformed, chromosomally abnormal fetus (with 2 heads or something weird), 90% of my eggs are now "damaged goods", etc.  I take good care of my health and am at a reasonable weight (140), plus women on my mother's side of the family go into menopause near age 60.  I've read these factors are a plus for my age.  

Where are the success stories?   I can't even find any statistics on the chances of naturally becoming pregnant at my age.  Is it really that rare?   The information out there makes me feel like some freak.   Can someone PLEASE give me  some encouraging news?

[Alleycat46]

Thanks for this post and comments. I'm so surprised and excited to be pregnant at 45, scared as well. But I'm not sure if I can keep it? My bf is 54 with a grandson and says he doesn't want the baby. I have two teenage children from my deceased husband and if I go it alone that's 3 kids to raise by myself. So confused on what to do. If my bf would be on board I wouldn't think twice, any ideas how I can convince him?

Good luck to all the soon to be and trying to be mamas out here. I have several friends my age who are pg or had babies recently and they were all unplanned, completely healthy, and totally beloved, so please don't give up if that's what you want.

[japphian]

Just wondered how things turned out?  I have two children, one born at 36 one at 39.  now wondering about trying for a third child.... but i turn 46 this year.....

[ariellesmithe]

Congratulations to you both...Shannon and Lisa.  I pray that everything works out for you both! :)

[LisaMarie2211]

Hello Shannon,

Your story sounds exactly like mine.  If I am pregnant, I'm 2 and a half weeks.
I could really use a friend to talk to...

Lisa

[Shannon352]

I'm 45 and just found out I am pregnant. It was not planned. I'm still in shock and keep catching myself shaking my head.  Is this true, didn't even think it was possible.   I have a 23 year, 21 year old and 7 year old, all girls.  After the 7 year old I had 3 miscarriages. So we're just waiting for the other shoe to drop.  The kicker is my oldest is engaged and she has set her wedding date which conveniently is now the week I'm due assuming I go full term.  We aren't planning on it, but the stress of it all is crazy.  I'm either going to be a roley poley pudge muffin at my daughter's wedding if I'm even able to be there or I'm going to lose my 4th child.

[45mum]

I am 7 weeks pregnant and 45 . Total surprise ! Found out 2 weeks ago after having 5 glasses of wine! Shock !! Was last pregnant at 40 , 5 years ago and miscarried , so thought that was it for me . I have a 10 year old son and a 12 year daughter who would be thrilled , more then my husband mind you who thinks we have enough on our plate , both self employed and stressed out most of the time feeling time starved constantly .
Had a scan this week , told my fibroid had grown to 7.5 cm and is on the lining of my womb -and not sure how this will affect my pregnancy ! Been petrified by all the negativity, my drinks when not knowing I was pregnant,  risks about have a baby at my age , although I am also excited at the prospect but to frightened to get too happy about it just in case it goes !!! Anyone with a similar experience and what was the outcome ???? Many thanks for sharing !