Navigating An Advanced Maternal Age
Age 35 is young for women who are moving into amazing stages of life. From a reproductive standpoint, however, pregnancy after 35 is considered an advanced maternal age. What was once a less frequent occurrence, pregnancy over 35 has increased over 300% in recent history. Many delay relationships or family planning for later, while some struggle to find healthy relationships until later ages. Pregnancy after 35, therefore, is increasingly common. While many women conceive and have healthy children at this age, there are health risks and considerations. Some even need additional support in the form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) at this age. There is also the matter of preserving fertility for pregnancy at even later ages. Learning and understanding the many changes, risks, challenges, and options allows for proactive, optimal care.
Fertility changes with age
The fertility and pregnancy journey changes significantly over time. Women are less likely to get pregnant starting as soon as age 30. From birth, women have a set number of follicles in the ovaries that can mature into eggs. From as early as ages 30-35, the quantity and quality decrease significantly. Women, therefore, are likely to have subfertility, increased miscarriages, or premature births at 35. Chromosomal abnormalities also come into play from advanced maternal ages. While there are general averages and each situation differs, fertility challenges should be considered. Couples 35 and above should consider proactive fertility and genetic testing to rule out any potential roadblocks and to start strategies to improve fertility.
Pregnancy complication awareness
Certain complications are more common after 35, making pregnancy a more delicate process. These complications often apply to women’s health and the health of the child. Gestational diabetes, for instance, is more likely in women over 35 compared to those under 25. Pregnancy-induced hypertension, placental complications, and preeclampsia rates increase with maternal age. Women are encouraged to maintain optimal health through diet, regular light exercise, and consistent health checks.
The power of fertility treatment
Many women are aware of these challenges and consider fertility support. Many fertility clinics provide a range of services that increase fertility and pregnancy at advanced maternal ages. Some may choose to delay pregnancy further and open the conversation of fertility preservation. Through cryopreservation of multiple eggs, women can use in vitro fertilization (IVF) at later dates to achieve pregnancy. Women over 35 are more likely to be diagnosed with infertility. The journey now changes as IVF becomes an effective form of fertility support. Women and men who choose IVF must follow the process, which includes hormone medication, frequent testing, and medical procedures. Success rates also vary, and there are also the emotional and financial challenges of repeating IVF cycles.
Labor, delivery, and postpartum support
A healthy pregnancy is possible and a reality for many women over 35. At the same time, the labor and delivery experiences can differ for women over 35. Women tend to have prolonged labor and more challenging experiences at that age, especially first-time mothers. Cesarean delivery rates also increase with age, reaching over 40% for first-time mothers over 35. Recovery after childbirth may require additional consideration for mothers over 35. Energy levels can be lower and healing slower, so patience, additional support, and self-care are recommended. Postpartum depression (PPD) risk is also higher for older women, so screening can ensure women get the necessary care and treatment. Support systems that include family, friends, and experts are critical to long-term health.
Navigating these issues confidently
These risks and challenges are not meant to scare future mothers. Many women over 35 conceive without issue and go through the pregnancy process smoothly. The risks, however, remain. Women who understand the potential issues can be proactive with treatment and support. Anyone considering pregnancy should first consider fertility counseling to determine if there are any barriers to a healthy pregnancy. This step can improve general health, fertility, and pregnancy success. This proactive approach also helps women pursue fertility treatment like IVF sooner, which increases success rates and decreases cost and effort. Review the many challenges for women over 35 and take action today.