Did you notice there has been a rise in pregnancy in women over 30? This might be due to different reasons like financial security or the right situation. While there is no 'one-size-fits-all' age to become a mother, there are important considerations and potential risks associated with late pregnancy. We spoke to Dr Niharika, Senior Infertility Specialist, Kamineni Fertility, Hyderabad, who explained fertility after 35, challenges in pregnancy, and how to make informed decisions for a healthy pregnancy.
The Trend of Late Pregnancy
Dr Niharika said, “Over the past few decades, there has been a notable trend towards delayed motherhood. Women are pursuing education and careers, delaying starting a family until later in life. While this choice is entirely valid and often rewarding, it does come with its own set of challenges.”
Fertility Decline After 35
One of the most significant challenges of late pregnancy is declining fertility. Dr Niharika added, “A woman's fertility peaks in her early to mid-20s and starts to decline gradually in her late 20s. After reaching 35, the decline in fertility accelerates at a faster rate. After 40, the chances of getting pregnant naturally drop significantly, and the risk of miscarriage and birth defects increases.”
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Increased Risk of Complications
Late pregnancies are often associated with an increased risk of medical complications for both the mother and the baby. Dr Niharika listed some of the complications as follows:
- Women over 35 have a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes, which can affect the health of both mother and child.
- Late pregnancies can lead to higher rates of hypertension during pregnancy, which can result in pre-eclampsia.
- Fertility treatments used by older women can increase the chances of having twins or higher-order multiples, which can be associated with more complications.
- As women get older, there's a higher chance of having babies with genetic issues like Down syndrome.
- Older mothers may have a higher likelihood of requiring a caesarean section due to various complications.
- According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, pregnancy occurring in later stages of life can also impact the well-being of the foetus. Individuals who become pregnant after the age of 40 face a higher likelihood of experiencing preeclampsia.
Emotional and Social Factors
Dr Niharika informed, “Late pregnancy can also bring about emotional and social challenges. Older mothers may find it harder to adjust to the demands of motherhood, especially if they are well-established in their careers or have a well-structured lifestyle. Also, they may face societal pressures and judgements from peers and family members.”
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Making Informed Decisions For Pregnancy After 30
While late pregnancy does come with its share of challenges, it's essential to emphasise that many women successfully have healthy pregnancies and children later in life. The key is making informed decisions and taking steps to mitigate risks:
- If a woman is considering late pregnancy, it's crucial to consult a fertility specialist to assess her reproductive health and discuss options, such as egg freezing or fertility treatments.
- Early and comprehensive prenatal care is essential for managing any potential risks and ensuring a healthy pregnancy.
- Women need to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management.
- Older mothers may benefit from genetic counselling to understand the risks of chromosomal abnormalities and explore prenatal testing options.
- Building a strong support system, including family, friends, and professionals, can help alleviate some of the emotional and social challenges.
Bottomline
Dr Niharika concluded, “Despite these challenges and concerns, many women successfully have healthy pregnancies and babies in their late 30s-40s. It's essential for women considering pregnancy at an older age to work closely with their doctor to manage risks and make informed decisions about their reproductive health.”
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is shared by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert before planning pregnancy to avoid risks and complications.]
