Pregnancy is an incredible journey at any age – but for women over 35, it can come with unique challenges and considerations. That does not mean it is a problem – in fact, the average age of first time mothers is increasing year over year, because women now more than ever are starting their families later in life. Because of that, it’s essential to understand the realities that are associated with pregnancy after 35.
The Biological Clock: Understanding Fertility After 35
As women age, their fertility naturally declines. This is primarily due to a decrease in the number and quality of eggs. By age 35, a woman’s chance of conceiving each month is about 15-20%, compared to a 25-30% chance in her late 20s. This decline becomes more pronounced after 40, where the monthly chance of conception drops to around 5%.
Increased Risks: What to Be Aware Of
Pregnancy after 35 is sometimes referred to as a “geriatric pregnancy,” a term that may sound alarming, but really just reflects increased medical monitoring. This term is slowly being phased out, in favor of “AMA”, or “Advanced Maternal Age”.
This increase in medical monitoring is because there can be an increase of risks with pregnancies later in life. These risks do not need to be a cause for concern with the proper testing and monitoring. Some of the risks include:
- Chromosomal Abnormalities: The risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, increases with maternal age. For a woman at 35, the risk of Down syndrome is approximately 1 in 350, and it rises to 1 in 100 by age 40.
- Miscarriage: The likelihood of miscarriage also increases with age. Women over 35 have a miscarriage rate of about 20%, compared to 10% in younger women.
- Gestational Diabetes: Older pregnant women are more likely to develop gestational diabetes, which can lead to complications such as high birth weight and preterm birth.
- Hypertension: The risk of high blood pressure and related conditions, such as preeclampsia, is higher in older pregnant women.
- Preterm Birth: There is a higher risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, which can have long-term health implications for the baby.
The Benefits: Why It’s Not All Gloom and Doom
Despite the increased risks, there are also significant benefits to having children later in life:
- Emotional and Financial Stability: Older parents are often more emotionally and financially stable, which can provide a more secure and nurturing environment for the child.
- Life Experience: With age comes wisdom. Older parents may have more life experience, which can translate into more thoughtful and patient parenting.
- Career and Personal Fulfillment: Many women choose to delay motherhood to establish their careers and achieve personal goals, which can lead to a greater sense of fulfillment and readiness for parenthood.
Preparing for a Healthy Pregnancy
If you’re considering pregnancy after 35, there are several steps you can take to promote a healthy pregnancy:
- Preconception Check-Up: Schedule a preconception visit with your healthcare provider to discuss your health, medical history, and any potential risks.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Adopt a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Prenatal Care: Attend all prenatal appointments to monitor your health and the baby’s development. Early and regular prenatal care can help manage any complications.
- Folic Acid: Start taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid before conception to help prevent neural tube defects.
- Managing Chronic Conditions: If you have chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively before and during pregnancy.
Pregnancy after 35 comes with its set of challenges, but with proper care and preparation, many women have healthy pregnancies and babies. The key is to stay informed, work closely with your healthcare provider, and take proactive steps to support your health and well-being. Embracing the journey with awareness and positivity can lead to a rewarding and joyful experience.
