The trend of women waiting longer to get pregnant is growing. However, doctors warn that advanced maternal age may come with certain risks.
According to the CDC, the average age for a new mom is 27 in the United States. This is a record-high.
Doctors say that many women wait until they are in their 30s and 40s before having a child, but this can be risky.
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Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies’ Dr. Cole Greves said, “In a way, age has become just a number.”
Doctors report that pregnancies occurring later in life are becoming more frequent, but older age increases maternal risk.
Included in the risks are:
- Miscarriage
- Preeclampsia
- Preterm labor
- Hypertension and gestational diabetes
- Increased risk of C-section
- Blood Loss Risk
Doctors say that having a child at a later age is largely dependent on the health of the mother.
The Dr. Greves explained that if a woman is healthy and active before pregnancy without many medical conditions, she can do much better during pregnancy. She should eat well, be physically fit, and exercise frequently.
You should also consider the increased risks for a fetus.
Prenatal care is recommended for anyone who plans to become pregnant and will be at least 35 years old when they deliver. This includes those with existing conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
The doctor said that these conditions need to be addressed prior to conception in order to ensure that the patient has the best pregnancy possible.
The doctors said that there is also an increased risk for fetal anomalies in older mothers, but this can be monitored through various screenings.