PREGNANCY AFTER 35: HEALTHY MOMS, HEALTHY BABIES

Are you considering pregnancy after 35? Understand the issues for older mothers — and know what it takes to have a healthy pregnancy.

 

It might take longer to get pregnant

You're born with a limited number of eggs. As you reach your mid- to late 30s, your eggs decrease in quantity and quality. Also, older women's eggs aren't fertilized as easily as younger women's eggs. 

 

You're more likely to have a multiple pregnancy

The chance of having twins increases with age due to hormonal changes that could cause the release of multiple eggs at the same time. The use of assisted reproductive technologies — such as in vitro fertilization — also can play a role.

 

You're more likely to develop gestational diabetes

This type of diabetes, which occurs only during pregnancy, is more common as women get older. Left untreated, gestational diabetes can cause a baby to grow significantly larger than average — which increases the risk of injuries during delivery. Gestational diabetes can also increase the risk of premature birth, high blood pressure during pregnancy, and complications to your infant after delivery such as 

jaundice, hypoglycemia,…

 

You're more likely to develop high blood pressure during pregnancy

Research suggests high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy is more common in older women. You will need more frequent obstetric appointments and you might need to deliver before your due date to avoid complications.

 

You're more likely to have a low birth weight baby and a premature birth
 

You might need a C-section

Older mothers have a higher risk of pregnancy-related complications that might lead to a C-section delivery such as preeclampsia, placenta previa,…

 

The risk of chromosome abnormalities is higher

Babies born to older mothers have a higher risk of certain chromosome problems, such as Down syndrome.

 

The risk of pregnancy loss is higher

The risk of pregnancy loss — by miscarriage and stillbirth — increases as you get older. Research suggests that the decrease in the quality of your eggs, combined with an increased risk of chronic medical conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, could increase your risk of miscarriage. 

 

Taking good care of yourself is the best way to take care of your baby. Pay special attention to the basics: