Age Affects IVF Success Rates

I find myself frequently disappointed by the articles I read online insinuating that women  over 40 have frivolously sacrificed their most fertile years in order to build a career and financial stability. While I can accept that this is certainly the case for many women, I would appreicate it if you would also make room for those of us who have been trying unsuccessfully for years to get pregnant.

I am 41 and I have been trying for a number of years to get pregnant. One thing that you might consider is that many women with infertility issues cannot always afford the high expense of IVF when they are younger. The unforunate reality is that it isn't until we reach our late 30s that we can afford $12,000 for this procedure.

I did what I could afford when I could afford it, which included repeated cycles of Clomid and unsuccessful IUIs most recently at 39. I was told then that IVF was likely my only option and I was also told that my BMI had to be under 30 in order for them to perform the procedure. In retrospect I wish I'd sought a second opinion right then. But, I didn't. I tried desperately to lose enough weight to get to that point of the next year and a half. I just couldn't get there. Finally, I sought a second opinion and found a specialist who was appalled that I was told I'd need to lose that much weight in order to receive the procedure.

I just finished my first IVF cycle, which resulted in 18 eggs retrieved. 11 were successfully fertilized and we transferred 4. Unfortunately, the first time did not work. We have enough money to try one more time and we will.

I certainly understand that it is your job to write a story that conveys a broader perspective. But, you should know that all women are "electing" to put off pregnancy. Many of us have been struggling for years to make this happen. We deserve some respect.