At Bridge we have special experience in treating the over 40s but, the sooner you commence treatment, the better.

Why? It's simple -

The effect of age on ovarian function results in a decline in fertility which is clearly evident after the age of 35 years, so, when a woman of 40 years of age or more seeks advice about fertility, treatment options must be decided upon sooner rather than later.

The most effective treatment options for the over 40s are : -

Superovulation IUI
IVF and Assisted Hatching
IVF with donor oocytes

A typical sequence is : -

Month 1 Diagnostic Tests
Month 2 Superovulation IUI
Month 3 Superovulation IUI
Month 4 Superovulation IUI

If not pregnant then : -

Month 6 IVF +/- Assisted Hatching
Month 9 IVF +/- Assisted Hatching
Month 12 IVF with donor oocytes

Diagnostic tests may reveal a need to move to IVF +/- donor oocytes sooner rather than later. These tests include:

• Blood for hormones in the follicular phase (FSH, LH, Oestradiol and Inhibin B)
• Ultrasound : Aquasonography. These tests are carried out speedily so that treatment can begin without delay.

The success of infertility treatment is most affected by : -

• The age of the woman
• The duration of infertility

Women in their late 30s should be encouraged to consider their options and treatment strategies, avoiding delays in deciding about when to start families, as live birth rates in the 40s and over are : -

• 50% worse than in the late 30s
• 66% worse than in the early 30s

whether treatment is by insemination, IVF or ICSI. A recent HFEA report has shown that live birth rates in women requiring IVF decreases markedly in women over the age of 34 years using their own eggs.

Detailed and individualised assessment of the uterus and ovarian function by hormone blood tests and ultrasound scan will give women the information they require to decide which treatment strategy to consider to optimise their chances of having a baby.

Bridge provides special advice, assessment and tests for women in their late 30s and early 40s concerned about their fertility.

For more information ring 020 7403 3363.

Early assessment and treatment leads to the best outcome.