More and more women elect to have children later in life and certainly post the age of 35. Today, women are able to work before they have a family thanks to advancements in healthcare, better career opportunities, and the evolution of the general norms of society. Pregnancy after 35 is becoming more and more common, but it is by no means completely safe. Taking time to understand both sides will help educate women in making an informed choice to their reproductive health.
Risks of Pregnancy After 35
1. The most important risk associated with pregnancy after 35 is increased risk of miscarriage. Research has found that women over the age of 35 are more likely to lose a pregnancy, and the risk of this increases as women hit their 40s. Some of them are due to the fact there’s been a decline in the quality of eggs, which makes it harder for the fertilized egg to implant or develop properly.
2. Another concern for women who become pregnant after 35 is that women are at higher risk for developing chromosomal problems, including Down syndrome. The chance that a baby will have these conditions increases with age. For example, at 35 years old the chance that a baby has Down syndrome is 1 in 350; at 40, that chance is 1 in 100. Genetic screening and diagnostic tests, including amniocentesis and noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) are often suggested for women over 35 to look for the build up of these conditions.
3. Pregnancy after 35 is more likely to be complicated by gestational diabetes, preeclampsia (high blood pressure), or placenta previa. Preterm delivery can result from these conditions, which may have adverse effects on both mother and baby. They are also more likely to have difficult labor and need a section. It is crucial to consult a gynecologist in Lahore to monitor your pregnancy closely and ensure the best possible care for both mother and baby.
4. One of the most obvious challenges to pregnancy after 35 is that of fertility decline. As a woman ages past 40, her fertility naturally starts to decline. It decreases the number and quality of eggs becoming more difficult to conceive. In other women, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing, may be needed for pregnancy to occur.
There are benefits of a pregnancy after the age of 35.
1. One major advantage of waiting to have children until after 35 is the emotional and the financial readiness that many women have reached by that age. Women over the age of 35 may have achieved more in their career and life and so be better equipped for the pitfalls of parenthood. Perhaps financially, they may already have set up more stability and resources to raise children.
2. Women over 35 are more likely to hold healthier lifestyle choices than younger moms. They are health conscious and tend to eat good nutrition, exercise and do good routines of self care. Healthy habits like this are practiced for both the good of the mother and baby which can enable the pregnancy to be healthier overall. Additionally, older pregnant women usually practice more care of going for regular prenatal checkups and following medical advice, thereby decreasing the risk of complications.
3. Many women who choose to have children later in life have a stronger support system. By this time, they could well be in stable long-term relationships and have significant family and friends support networks. One useful thing about this support is that it can be really helpful if you are trying to manage the requirements of pregnancy and caring for your child. If you are looking for expert guidance during this important phase, consulting the best gynecologist in Karachi can offer you invaluable support and care.
How Fertility Treatments and Support Works by CDC
For these women over 35, age related infertility can be overcome with help from fertility treatments. Unfortunately there are not a ton of options out there for older women who are trying to conceive, but assisted reproductive technologies (ART), like in vitro fertilization (IVF), egg freezing, or intrauterine insemination (IUI) have come a long way in terms of helping older women conceive. The rate of success with ART will differ depending on age, but it can be a helpful option to women who want to become mothers later in life.
In addition, genetic counseling is frequently encouraged for older women considering pregnancy particularly if fertility treatments are being used. It enables parents to know of the dangers and make sensible moves regarding well being alternatives.
Conclusion
Pregnancy after 35 can be a rewarding experience, but it is also high risk and reward. However women over the age of 35 may have greater risks like an increased chance miscarriage, chromosomal problems and pregnancy complications on the one hand. Many women of this age are just emotionally and financially ready for having a child, which is a rewarding choice for a lot of people.
