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Oakdale ObGyn Blog Pregnancy

Pregnancy In Women Over 35

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Planning a family is an exciting time, but many couples are getting married later in life and delaying pregnancy. We know you want to have a healthy baby, so what are the risks for you and your baby if you decide to become pregnant when you are over the age of 35? We asked our experts.

Many women who are planning a pregnancy (at any age) have heard frightening or discouraging things from friends, family, or the Internet. Don’t be nervous! Remember that most women get pregnant without any assistance and have healthy, normal pregnancies. If you hear or read something that concerns you, don’t hesitate to ask. You can send us a question through our patient portal anytime.

Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

  • It might take longer to get pregnant, as fertility can decline in your mid-to-late 30s. If you have been trying to conceive for more than six months, give us a call.
  • You are more likely to have multiple births. Hormonal changes can cause multiple eggs to be released simultaneously, resulting in more than one baby. This is especially true if you’re using assisted fertility techniques.
  • You have a higher chance of developing preeclampsia, resulting in high blood pressure or kidney function changes indicated by high levels of protein in your urine. We can help you monitor both.
  • Your risk of developing gestational diabetes can increase. If this happens, our physicians can help you control it through diet, physical activity, and medication.
  • Your chance of having a C-section increases, due to the higher risk of pregnancy-related complications. Our physicians perform C-sections every day and can help you successfully manage this procedure.
  • The risk of certain genetic birth defects, like Trisomy 21 (often known as Down syndrome), increase with age. This risk increases more significantly at the age of 35, but pregnancies at all ages have a risk. We can arrange for prenatal screening and testing for chromosomal conditions, if you wish.

While pregnancy over the age of 35 can come with certain risks, it also can be a time of great joy. The physicians at Oakdale ObGyn are skilled in managing higher-risk pregnancies and can help you navigate any risks you may encounter if you are planning to become pregnant after the age of 35. Please call us for a consultation at 763-587-7000.