Conception Planning Many women find that when they are over the age of 35, conception is harder than previously thought. Taking care of yourself by eating well and staying healthy can improve fertility. As you age, the likelihood of certain medical conditions increases and can lead directly to some infertility problems. Taking the time to learn this information before conceiving is well worth the effort. If you do have problems conceiving, there are many things you can do to help conceive; if all else fails, assisted conception may be used. Making the decision Pregnancy is the first step in your life-changing, life-extending relationship with your child. Becoming a mother can be one of the most satisfying and joyful aspects of your life, but it requires a lot of time, money, and emotion on your part. Therefore, the decision to conceive should be made only after thorough consideration of some important facts. When is the right time? Many couples want to wait until the perfect time to have a baby – when the material, professional and relationship situation is flawless. But career, financial and health challenges can arise at any time. Fortunately, babies can thrive in imperfect conditions, so you or your environment doesn’t need to be perfect. Some women have always wanted to be mothers, while some have an unclear attitude toward children. If your interest in motherhood is recent, you may be hesitant about whether having children is right for your life. For many women in their thirties and forties, who have created wealth and realized their lives, it is natural to have some uncertainty in the face of becoming a mother. You may have given a lot to your career, partnerships and friendships, and have some hobbies and activities that you are genuinely committed to. Pregnancy will require a big change in your lifestyle, as will motherhood. You will have to care for your child all day long, resulting in a great loss of freedom and autonomy in your life that will be very difficult to accept, especially if you have been enjoying a great degree of independence up until now. Having a realistic perspective For soon-to-be parents, mothers who smile and take care of their adorable babies without worry are a major part of the advertising. And the countless sleepless nights, crying babies, and the frustration of not being able to know what’s wrong with your child are facts that are rarely mentioned. Children are always demanding and unpredictable. Their inability to tell you what they need makes you feel lost and out of control; and that’s a feeling you may not like, especially if you pride yourself on being organized and efficient. Children are also time-consuming, and they get attention in their own words, not yours. If they are hungry or uncomfortable, or if they simply want to be snuggled, they will let you know and stop crying only after you guess their needs. For a period of time, your children will occupy a prime position in your life; this will strain your relationships, affect your career, and shake your self-image as a capable, independent person. However, usually those aspects of life that require the most attention are also the ones we find most worthy and enriching and cherish more. Your child will not only turn your world upside down, he or she will also teach you about your tremendous ability to nurture life. Your child will return your love and make you feel like the most special person in the world. This aspect of motherhood makes being a mother feel like the best job on earth. Even in the most frustrating moments of parenthood, the slightest smile or bright grin from your child can make you forget about your exhaustion and the opportunities you’ve missed to be with friends.