Pregnant Women Increase Risk After Age 35: Giving Birth To A Healthy Baby In Your Mid-30s
Humans are living longer, more enriched lives than ever in history, and we have science to thank. Along with longer lifespans come later “life landmarks” — what are traditionally thought of as finishing your education, getting engaged, married, having a child, and buying a home, among other milestones.
There are both advantages and disadvantages to starting a family at a certain age. Many mothers-to-be are living out their dreams, but could be wondering about their future health and the wellbeing of a baby if they get pregnant later down the road.
So, when does a pregnancy become high-risk ? Age 35 has been generally accepted as the cutoff, but every individual is different.
“Age has less to do with the health of your baby versus the health of your body. A 40-year-old women could be healthier than a 20 year old, biologically,” Prudence Hall, M.D., Ob/Gyn and founder of the Hall Center in Santa Monica, Calif, told SELF.
But, according to Parenting, many biological changes do happen in a woman’s body at 35 years old. The risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy is about double for women over that magic age, and gestational diabetes is two to three times more common. Additionally, the chance of having a cesarean section is about twice as high for pregnant women ages 35 to 39 as for those in their 20s.
Aside from these factors, 35 is also considered a risky time to get pregnant because there are also some risks for the baby’s health. The chance of having twins and triplets increases significantly in your late 30s, and early 40s.
With increasing age, the risks also increase of having a miscarriage or a baby with Down syndrome or a chromosomal abnormality. Each case should be considered on an individual basis. Don't let your age stop you from starting a family, but consult with a doctor to ensure the choice is a wise one given your personal circumstances. Preconception checks and counseling can all help a mother-to-be have the healthiest pregnancy possible, according to WebMd.
Update: A quote from a dated source was deleted from this story Sept. 16.
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