Getting pregnant at 38 is possible, though it falls within the medical classification of advanced maternal age (35 or older). Many women successfully conceive and carry healthy pregnancies at this age without complications. However, awareness of the biological changes in the late thirties is helpful for family planning. Conception may involve more proactive monitoring and a different timeline for seeking medical guidance compared to earlier years.
Fertility Decline: The Biological Reality at 38
The primary factor driving the change in fertility at age 38 is the decline in both egg quantity and quality. A woman is born with all her eggs, and by age 37, the ovarian reserve is significantly diminished. The more impactful factor, however, is the shift in egg quality.
As eggs age, they are more likely to have chromosomal abnormalities, affecting their ability to be successfully fertilized and develop into a healthy pregnancy. This increases the time conception takes and raises the risk of miscarriage. For a woman aged 38, the chance of conception in any single menstrual cycle is estimated to be 8% to 12%, a noticeable drop from the 20% chance experienced in the early 30s. This age-related change is an inevitable biological process, underscoring the importance of a proactive approach to trying to conceive.
Conception Timelines and Medical Support
Due to the accelerated timeline of fertility decline in the late thirties, the recommended period for trying to conceive naturally before seeking medical evaluation is shorter. While women under 35 try for one year, those aged 35 or older (including age 38) are advised to seek a fertility evaluation after six months of trying without success.
This shorter window allows for earlier intervention if a problem is identified. A fertility workup typically begins with a thorough medical history for both partners and an examination. Initial testing for the woman often involves blood work to check hormone levels, such as Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), which indicates ovarian reserve.
Other common initial tests include checking for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and a pelvic ultrasound to examine the uterus and ovaries for structural issues. Optimizing lifestyle factors supports reproductive health during this process. This includes maintaining balanced nutrition, avoiding smoking, and ensuring adequate sleep.
Health Considerations During Pregnancy at 38
Once pregnancy is achieved at age 38, it is managed with careful monitoring. While many women have healthy pregnancies, there is an increased statistical risk for certain conditions that require closer attention. These risks are generally manageable with modern prenatal care.
Conditions such as gestational hypertension and gestational diabetes occur at higher rates in this age group. Increased monitoring, including frequent blood pressure checks and glucose screening, helps detect and manage these issues promptly. The likelihood of needing a Cesarean section (C-section) is also statistically higher for women in their late thirties.
The age-related decline in egg quality means there is an elevated risk of the baby having a chromosomal condition, such as Down syndrome. Modern prenatal care offers various screening and diagnostic tests, including non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and amniocentesis. Working closely with a healthcare provider ensures that risks are managed effectively and the pregnancy progresses safely.