Over 40? Understanding the Infertility Profile

Common Traits of Infertility Over 40

Career-Oriented and Delayed Childbearing

Many individuals facing infertility in their 40s are highly career-oriented. They often hold high-ranking positions and have delayed marriage and childbearing to focus on their careers or personal interests. According to the CDC, the average age of first-time mothers in the U.S. has increased from 21.4 years in 1970 to 26.9 years in 2018 (CDC).

Perfectionism and Approval Addiction

Perfectionism and the need for external validation are also common traits. These individuals often strive for excellence in all areas of life, except for conceiving, which can be a source of immense frustration.

Challenging Upbringings

A less-than-ideal upbringing or volatile relationships with parents can contribute to infertility issues. Research suggests that childhood stress and trauma can have long-term effects on reproductive health (NIH).

Hard Work and Success

These individuals are typically hard workers who always meet deadlines and eventually succeed in everything they do—except getting pregnant, at least initially.

Personal Journey to Overcoming Infertility

After years of struggling, I realized that my previous lifestyle was not conducive to pregnancy. Here are the significant changes I made:

Quitting a High-Stress Job

I left my high-stress job, which was challenging due to the "golden shackles" that had built up over 19 years. High stress levels are known to negatively impact fertility (Harvard Health).

Changing My Diet

In the corporate world, my diet was poor—coffee for breakfast and rushed lunches. I switched to a diet that promotes hormonal balance and overall health. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, can improve fertility (PubMed).

Visualization and Meditation

I started practicing visualization and meditation, which helped reduce my stress levels and allowed me to envision and create my future. Mindfulness practices have been shown to improve fertility outcomes (Fertility and Sterility).

Confronting My Past

I confronted my challenging childhood and upbringing. I believe that my fertility issues were rooted in being an unwanted child born to parents unprepared for a third child.

Realizing Self-Worth

I finally understood that I am worthy just as I am, without needing to prove anything to anyone.

Steps to Take If You Fit the Infertility Profile

If you recognize yourself in this profile, consider making the following changes:

1. Evaluate Your Job: Consider whether your job is contributing to your stress levels and if a change is necessary.
2. Improve Your Diet: Focus on foods that promote hormonal balance and overall health.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate visualization and meditation into your daily routine.
4. Address Past Trauma: Seek therapy or counseling to confront and resolve past issues.
5. Acknowledge Your Worth: Understand that you are worthy without needing external validation.

Conclusion

If you're trying to conceive and fit the "infertility profile," take a close look at your life. Making these changes could not only improve your chances of getting pregnant but also make you a happier person overall.

Copyright © 2006 Sandy Robertson

Sources:

• CDC
• NIH
• Harvard Health
• PubMed
• Fertility and Sterility