While I’m happy for celebrity couple John Travolta and Kelly Preston on the news that they’re expecting a baby in November, I also know that news like this raises many questions in the minds of women battling infertility. How could Kelly Preston conceive a child at age 47? Did she use donor eggs? Did she use IVF or did they really conceive the old-fashioned way?
Since Ms. Preston hasn’t revealed any details about the conception of their baby, I can only provide an educated guess based on the latest statistics and my experience providing fertility treatments to many women in their 40s. While I don’t wish to tread on celebrities’ privacy by demanding they reveal every detail, I do wish that, when they do use IVF or other fertility solutions, they would provide that basic information simply to help break down the stigma of infertility.
Many people – women and men – are ashamed and embarrassed when they find themselves diagnosed with fertility problems, and that shame often stops them from pursuing any kind of help. That is so unfortunate, because technology has progressed to the point that we have a range of infertility treatments and surgeries that can help, and some that are actually quite simple and inexpensive.
So while I don't know for sure what, if any, fertility treatments John Travolta and Kelly Preston used to conceive their baby, based on her age alone, it's highly likely some form of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) was provided. Fewer than 5 percent of women age 45 can conceive with their own eggs, I wish Ms. Preston nothing but the best in her pregnancy and look forward to hearing of the birth of a healthy baby for the Travolta family - a wonderful event that hopefully will help soothe a little of the pain of losing their son Jett last year.
And to my age 40-plus readers, take heart at the news. Pregnancy after age 40 is possible, but in most cases you’ll need some kind of fertility care to have a baby. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to reach out for help – whether you’re a world-famous celebrity or our neighbor down the street, Fertility Partnership is here to help you achieve your dream.
