Pregnancy after Menopause

What Is Menopause?

Menopause marks the natural end of a woman’s reproductive years, typically occurring between ages 45–55. During this phase, menstrual cycles stop, ovarian reserves are depleted, and the ovaries cease producing eggs (oocytes). While menopause is usually age-related, it can also occur prematurely due to medical conditions or treatments.

Causes of Ovarian Failure / Premature Menopause:

• Hormonal imbalances disrupting normal reproductive function
• Premature menopause before the age of 30
• Congenital absence or failure of oocyte production
• Bilateral oophorectomy (surgical removal of one or both ovaries)
• Damage to ovarian tissue due to radiation or chemotherapy

IVF with Oocyte Donation: A Recommended Solution

For women affected by menopause or premature ovarian failure, oocyte donation offers a promising path to parenthood.

Oocyte Donation Procedure:

• Egg Retrieval: Donor eggs are obtained from an egg bank.
• Fertilization: The eggs are fertilized with the husband’s sperm in a lab.
• Uterine Preparation: The recipient undergoes Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to restore menstrual-like cycles and prepare the uterine lining (endometrium).
• Embryo Transfer: Once the endometrium is receptive, the fertilized embryo is implanted into the uterus.

This method bypasses the need for viable eggs from the mother and significantly increases the chances of a successful pregnancy.