[josie1]

I am 38 years old and got married in Jun 08 to a 41-year old guy and we decided straight away to try for a baby so I came off the pill which I have been on for a long time.

When I first came off the pill, I had no periods for approx 3-4 months and saw the doctor who done tests on my hormones and they were fine. I had a scan to check if I had PCS but the tests were clear. My periods did start and initially were regular, on the 5th of each month, however in March I didn't come on until the 12th and it was more painful than normal. I still have not come on this month but had a negative pregnancy test.

He has got 2 teenagers from a previous marriage and I've got a 9 year old son from a previous marriage.

I know that fertility declines as you get older and try not to focus on getting pregnant too much. I know that it takes some people a long time to fall pregnant, it did take me 9 months to fall pregnant with my son and now we are past that stage I keep living in hope. It doesn't help that I am going away abroad with work for 4 months. Has anyone got advice or been in the same situation?

[DoulaLC]

It could be an off cycle, but due to your age, and the length of time you have been trying so far, I would check back with your doctor about further testing. Your husband needs to have some tests done as well. Having previous children does not guarantee fertility at a later time.

The first thing your doctor will likely do is a blood test to check for possible pregnancy at this time. There are a number of tests beyond blood tests for fertility that can be performed if all of the blood work comes back fine. You may want to consider asking your doctor for a referral to a reproductive endocrinologist to receive more specialized care. Good luck!

[josie1]

Thank you for your reply. I am due another appointment with the doctor on the 21st April and he wants to see both me and my husband so hopefully things will start progressing.