Your biological clock may be ticking furiously after age 40, but there are ways to improve your #ttc odds, as EVELINE GAN finds out.
Conceiving naturally after the age of 40 can be a struggle. The chances of achieving pregnancy is about 10 to 20 per cent each year for women aged 40 to 44.
If you’re 45 and above, it’s less than 5 per cent, according to Dr Lim Min Yu, consultant obstetrician, gynaecologist and fertility specialist at Gleneagles Hospital.
But while you may not be able to turn back your biological clock, there are ways to improve your chances. Here, doctors share tips on how you can boost your odds.
Have sex every two to three days, or around ovulation day
The highest chance of fertilisation occurs when you have sexual intercourse on the day before or on the day of ovulation, Dr Lim says.
You may predict ovulation by measuring your basal body temperature, using urine kits that detect a surge of a hormone called luteinising hormone or have a fertility specialist do an ultrasound scan to look out for ovarian follicle development, Dr Lim shares.
But why limit baby-making activity to just once or twice every menstrual cycle? Regular sex works, too. For couples trying to conceive, the recommended frequency of intercourse is every two to three times per week, or every two to three days, Dr Lim says.
Correct any gynaecological issues that may prevent pregnancy
A previous history of sexually-transmitted infections or appendicitis may sabotage your baby-making odds, the experts share. These conditions can cause inflammation and scarring in the fallopian tubes.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Everything You Need To Know About Direct School Admission
If your kid is good at sports, music or has other talents, the DSA programme may be his key to getting into an elite secondary school or specialised school. Here’s what you should know about the process.
What Is The Right CCA For Your Primary School Kid?
Co-curricular activities (CCAs) aren’t just frivolous frills. They teach kids important life skills that can’t be found in a classroom lesson. EVELINE GAN finds out how to select the right one for your child.
Why You Shouldn't Let PSLE Stress Take Over Your Kid's Life
PSLE preparations start in Primary 5, which means a high-pressure two years for your family. Here's how to support your child so they can do their best.
Should Your Kid Skip A Vaccine Shot?
Vaccinations are a rite of passage for every Singaporean child, but what if your kid is sick before an appointment, or misses a booster dose? Find out the answers to these and other pressing questions.
Separation Anxiety, Bullies And Other Preschool Blues
Preschool is rarely a smooth journey for children. Sasha Gonzales asks the experts how to handle the most common dilemmas, from separation anxiety to having trouble making new friends.
Is Your Kid Stressed About Starting School This Year?
School kids in Singapore are more stressed than their peers overseas. If your kid is feeling the pressure, here’s how to find what's triggering his anxiety – and how to help.
Speech Problems In Singapore Kids: When Should You Worry?
How can you help your little one get over his stuttering? Should you worry that your tot doesn’t speak as well or isn’t as talkative as his cousin? Sasha Gonzales polls the experts on the pressing speech and language issues in toddlers and preschoolers here.
The Most Common Learning Difficulties In Singapore Kids
Struggling to read, write or count is a common problem for many children, but how do you know when that struggle is actually a learning difficulty or disability? Sasha Gonzales asked three experts to tell us what signs to look out for and when to know to get help.
Can You Really Un-Spoil Your Child?
Yes, there are ways to turn things around – without losing your temper. Here, the experts share strategies you can use in common bratty situations.
Bottoms Up!
Using cloth nappies helps save the Earth – and your wallet, too, say these mums who choose not to put their babies in disposable diapers.
