Advanced Maternal Age: What You Need to Know

As women are waiting longer to start their families, the term "advanced maternal age" has become more commonly discussed in the medical community. Advanced maternal age refers to women who are pregnant at age 35 or older. While this age may not seem old in general terms, it does come with its own set of potential risks and challenges during pregnancy.

Symptoms:

• Women of advanced maternal age may experience a variety of symptoms during pregnancy, including increased fatigue, higher blood pressure, and greater likelihood of gestational diabetes. These symptoms can have implications for both the mother and the baby's health.

Diagnosis:

• Advanced maternal age is typically diagnosed during a prenatal visit when the mother's age is noted. This information is important for healthcare providers to be aware of as they can monitor for potential risks that may arise due to age-related factors during pregnancy.

Causes:

• The main cause of advanced maternal age is simply the delay in childbearing. Many women are choosing to establish their careers or wait until they are in a stable relationship before starting a family. Unfortunately, the natural decline in fertility with age means that pregnancies at later ages can come with increased risks.

Risk Factors:

• Some of the risks associated with advanced maternal age include an increased chance of chromosomal abnormalities in the baby, such as Down syndrome. Other risks include a higher likelihood of pregnancy complications, such as pre-eclampsia and premature birth.

Treatments:

• While advanced maternal age does come with higher risks, there are several treatments available to help manage these potential complications. This may include more frequent prenatal visits, additional testing, and closer monitoring throughout the pregnancy. Treatment plans will vary depending on each individual's health and pregnancy history.

Prevention:

• While it is not always possible to prevent advanced maternal age, women who are considering starting a family later in life can take steps to optimize their health before becoming pregnant. This may include ensuring that any chronic medical conditions are well-controlled, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking. Preconception counseling with a healthcare provider can also help women be better prepared for pregnancy at an older age.

In conclusion, advanced maternal age is becoming more common as women choose to delay childbearing for various reasons. While there are increased risks associated with pregnancy at an older age, with proper prenatal care and screenings, many of these risks can be managed effectively. It is important for women of advanced maternal age to work closely with their healthcare providers to ensure a healthy pregnancy for both themselves and their baby.