Can I have a baby at 45 years?

I am a 45-year-old widow who recently remarried. Although I have three children from my previous marriage, I desire to have one or two more children for my new husband whom I love very much. I want to know if I can still have a baby since I still see my menses.

Olufunke (by SMS)

Although you can still have babies since you are currently menstruating, getting pregnant at such advanced age has its own challenges. Apart from health issues which you as the mother may have, the baby is also prone to other health challenges chief of which is giving birth to a mentally challenged baby (Down’s Syndrome). For these reasons, you will need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of having a baby at such an advanced age before going ahead with the plan to have more babies. If you finally decide to go ahead with your plan, make sure that you are monitored closely by your attending physician.