Late Pregnancies Are Rising, But Is Your Body Ready at 35+?
Late Pregnancies Are Rising, But Is Your Body Ready at 35+?
When it comes to having children, there has been a noticeable shift over the last 20 years as more women are choosing to delay their pregnancies.
Getting pregnant after the age of 35 – also known as advanced maternal age – is becoming more and more prevalent, whether as a result of late marriages, career planning, or advancements in fertility treatments. According to experts, even though a healthy pregnancy is possible in the mid-30s, it is important to understand that the body does encounter extra difficulties at this point in life. “Along with contributing to the natural reduction in fertility, ageing can also raise the chance of certain issues, including high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and genetic abnormalities like Down syndrome,” Dr. Ambalal Gurram, senior consultant-OBGY, Manipal Hospital, told Times Now. However, according to Dr. Gurram, if given the proper care, many women over 35 carry and deliver healthy infants. “Consultation before conception is highly recommended. Doctors evaluate overall health, treat chronic problems, and might recommend prenatal vitamins or folic acid before conception during this session,” Dr. Gurram added. Once your pregnancy gets confirmed, close monitoring is very important. Regular doctor visits, detailed ultrasounds, and non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) are crucial for every pregnant woman. For genetic screening, some women might undergo amniocentesis or similar procedures, particularly if there is a family history of inherited disorders.”
What are the risks?
While a woman’s biological clock is a fact of life, there is nothing special or magical about age 35. It is simply an age at which risks become more discussion-worthy. A few of these are:
It might take longer to get pregnant
Women are born with a limited number of eggs. As you reach your mid-to-late 30s, the eggs decrease in quantity and quality. If you are older than 35 and have not been able to conceive for six months, consider asking your doctor for advice.
Increase in risk of gestational diabetes
This type of diabetes occurs only during pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes must maintain tight control of blood sugar through diet and physical activity. Sometimes medication is also required. Gestational diabetes increases the risk of premature birth, high blood pressure during pregnancy, and complications for your infant after delivery.
High blood pressure during pregnancy
According to studies, high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy is more common in older age. Your healthcare provider will carefully monitor your blood pressure, along with your baby’s growth and development.
Premature birth
Premature babies often have complicated medical problems.
High risk of chromosomal conditions
Babies born to older mothers have a higher risk of certain chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome.
Higher risk of loss of pregnancy
The risk of miscarriage and stillbirth increases with age. This may be because of preexisting medical conditions or because of chromosomal conditions in the baby.
Age is just one element
According to Dr. Gurram, it is important to keep in mind that age is only one element. “Pregnancy leads to being significantly impacted by a healthy lifestyle, which includes balanced eating, regular exercise, reducing stress, and abstaining from dangerous substances.” However, it is common to have children after the age of 35. Many women in this age group go on to have healthy babies and uneventful pregnancies with careful attention and well-informed choices.
