Trying to Conceive After 40: 5 Empowering Tips to Boost Your Chances

Are you over 40 and dreaming of starting or growing your family? You’re not alone, more women are trying to conceive (TTC) later in life, and it’s absolutely possible to take charge of your fertility journey. As a Fertility Doctor and Coach, I’ve helped countless women navigate TTC with confidence. While age can impact fertility, knowledge is power. I believe you can conceive after 40 but time is important so you should take charge of your fertility journey sooner than later.
In this post, I share five science-backed tips to optimize your chances of conceiving after 40, whether you’re in the Bay Area or beyond. Let’s dive in and empower your journey!

Why TTC After 40 Feels Different

After 40, egg quantity and quality naturally decline, and conception rates drop (about 5% per cycle compared to 20% in your 20s). But don’t let stats discourage you, strategic steps can make a big difference. Stress from busy lifestyles can amplify challenges, so let’s focus on actionable ways to boost your fertility and feel empowered.

5 Tips for Trying to Conceive After 40

Here are five practical, evidence-based steps to enhance your TTC journey:

1. Track Ovulation for 3 Months, Then Get Checked

Timing is everything! Use ovulation predictor kits (like Clearblue) or apps like Flo to pinpoint your fertile window (typically days 10–16 of your cycle). Try naturally for 3 months with timed intercourse. If no success, get a fertility workup for you and your partner. Tests like bloodwork (AMH, LH, FSH, estradiol) and semen analysis can identify issues early. Don’t wait—early insights are key after 40.

2. Optimize Your Lifestyle: Ditch Smoking and Alcohol

Your lifestyle directly impacts fertility. Quit smoking, it reduces egg quality and ovulation rates. Cut alcohol, as even moderate drinking can lower conception odds. Adopt a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil, fish, vegetables, and whole grains, it’s linked to higher IVF success and better egg health. Small changes, like swapping wine for sparkling water, add up for your fertility goals.

3. Check for Past Infections and Tubal Health

Undiagnosed infections (e.g., chlamydia) or blocked fallopian tubes can hinder conception. Ask your doctor for a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to check tube patency and STI tests to rule out past infections. These issues are treatable but often overlooked. Catching them early can save time and boost your chances of natural conception.

4. Seek Help Sooner Rather Than Later

After 40, time is precious. If you’re not pregnant after 3 months of trying (or sooner if you have irregular cycles), consult a fertility specialist. They can assess your ovarian reserve and discuss options tailored to you. As a fertility coach, I help women in the Bay Area and beyond navigate these steps with confidence—book a Clarity Call to start!

5. Know Your AMH (Egg Reserve), But Don’t Assume IVF

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) blood tests measure your egg reserve, giving insight into your fertility potential. Low AMH doesn’t mean you need IVF—it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Discuss AMH results with a specialist to understand your options, from natural conception to assisted reproductive technologies. Knowledge empowers you to make informed choices.

Empower Your TTC Journey

Trying to conceive after 40 is a unique journey, but you have the power to optimize it. Start with these tips, track your progress, and don’t hesitate to seek support. Book a free 15-minute Clarity Call with me to create a personalized TTC plan, or join Dr. Nadine’s Eggcellent Insider newsletter for weekly fertility tips. Listen to my soon upcoming podcast, Eggcellent Empowerment with Dr. Nadine, on Spotify for more insights.