Born to help women conceive, the main apps to manage female fertility are now also used as a contraceptive method by many couples. Europe but, in general, also countries that have always been considered highly fertile, such as Africa, are going through a phase of constant decline in fertility. The causes are multiple and seem to be attributable to nutrition, the increase in the female education level, the improved economic conditions…in short, it really seems that the structure of modern society does not play in favour of reproduction. In this context, apps have spread that are used to monitor female fertility in order to help concentrate intercourse in the fertile window or to avoid it if children are not desired. Even if it seems obvious, even the modern male has suffered a decrease in the fertility rate, therefore, if children are truly desired, both partners must verify their own fertility levels with appropriate analyses and must contact a doctor or clinic specialized. The use of an app, on the other hand, can be very useful once it has been established that both partners are fertile and want to start a family.
But let’s go in order
Fertility rates, or the number of children a woman has during her lifetime, can vary over time and can be influenced by a range of social, economic, and demographic factors. In general, fertility rates have been declining in many countries in recent decades, including Italy. According to data from Eurostat, the total fertility rate (TFR) in Italy was 1.35 in 2019, down from 1.57 in 1980. The TFR is the average number of children that a woman would have over the course of her lifetime if she were to experience the current age-specific fertility rates at each age of her reproductive life.
It is not uncommon for women in other European countries to have children later in life as well. The decision to start a family is a personal one and can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as education, career, and personal circumstances. However, the rate of childbirth among women over 40 does vary between countries. According to data from Eurostat, the percentage of first-time mothers over 40 in Italy (6.1%) was higher than the European Union average (2.8%) in 2013.
In this type of context, fertility apps offer a valid help to concentrate relationships in the fertile period in order to increase the chances of getting pregnant.
Some considerations…
There are a few considerations that women should be aware of when it comes to having children at an older age:
- Fertility: Fertility tends to decline with age, and women over 40 may have a more difficult time getting pregnant compared to younger women.
- Pregnancy risks: Pregnancy at an older age may be associated with an increased risk of complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preterm birth.
- Genetic testing: Women over 35 may be advised to undergo genetic testing to determine the risk of having a child with a chromosomal abnormality, such as Down syndrome.
But that said, it’s not my place to say at what age a woman should or shouldn’t have children. This article is for informational purposes only. The choice is up to the parental couple. I know both gorgeous older mothers and gorgeous young mothers.
Here are a few pros and cons of having children at an “older age”
I know that this is a very sensitive topic, so I have chosen to list not only the negative aspects but also the positive aspects of becoming mothers in old age. I know that it is a delicate choice and therefore the list is very partial. I repeat, it is a choice of the parental couple, the article has only an informative function and I hope it will be of support and help in your parenting journey.
Pros:
- Women may have more life experience and be more financially and emotionally stable when starting a family at an older age.
- Advances in reproductive technologies have made it possible for women to have children later in life.
- Women who have children at an older age may have more time to devote to parenting and may be able to provide a more relaxed and nurturing environment for their children.
Cons:
- Fertility tends to decline with age, and women over 40 may have a more difficult time getting pregnant compared to younger women.
- Pregnancy at an older age may be associated with an increased risk of complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preterm birth.
- Women over 35 may be advised to undergo genetic testing to determine the risk of having a child with a chromosomal abnormality, such as Down syndrome.
Available apps to check your fertility
And here we are, finally I list some apps to follow and monitor your cycle closely. Tell me which ones you think monitor your baby fever better!
Some of these apps use methods such as the basal body temperature method, the calendar method, and the cervical mucus method to help users predict their fertile days and plan for pregnancy or avoid pregnancy. Some examples of fertility tracking apps that are popular in Europe include:
- Ovia Fertility: tracks a user’s menstrual cycle, ovulation, and fertility to help them plan for pregnancy or avoid it.
- Flo: provides personalized predictions for a user’s menstrual cycle, ovulation, and fertility.
- Clue: allows users to track their menstrual cycle, ovulation, and fertility, as well as other health factors such as sleep, exercise, and mood.
These apps can be helpful in tracking and understanding fertility, but they should not be used as a replacement for medical advice. If you are trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy, speak with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Here are a few articles that discuss fertility rates and trends
- “Global fertility rates are in freefall, and no one knows why” (National Geographic, 2020): https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/2020/07/global-fertility-rates-are-in-freefall-and-no-one-knows-why/
- “Fertility rates continue to decline worldwide, new report shows” (World Health Organization, 2019): https://www.who.int/news-room/detail/21-06-2019-fertility-rates-continue-to-decline-worldwide-new-report-shows
- “Fertility rates decline in nearly all countries, especially in developing regions” (United Nations Population Division, 2019): https://www.un.org/development/desa/population/news/pressrelease/2019/09/fertility-rates-decline-in-nearly-all-countries-especially-in-developing-regions.html
- “Trends in fertility and childlessness in Europe” (Eurostat, 2018): https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Trends_in_fertility_and_childlessness_in_Europe
- “Fertility rates and trends” (Office for National Statistics, UK, 2018): https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/livebirths/articles/fertilityratesandtrends/2018-03-08
Disclaimer
The information contained herein is not and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Before making any changes to your diet, exercise or treatment, always consult your doctor or a qualified health professional.
The guidance provided may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Never make any decisions about your health based solely on the information provided in this article.
The author and creator of this article are not responsible for any damage or loss resulting from the improper use of the information presented here. Remember that each person is unique and therefore needs a personalized approach to health.
If you have any concerns about your health, please consult a qualified medical professional.