As we age, so does our body. An expert weighs in on the risks of late pregnancy that couples should be aware of.
Recently, there has been a trend towards more people choosing to have children at an older age, preferably after the age of 35. While this can be quite liberating and satisfying, it comes with some challenges and considerations for both men and women. Knowing these factors is necessary for anyone planning to conceive after the age of 35, as it makes the decision more rational and facilitates all the necessary safety measures.
Pregnancy after 35: Understanding the Challenges
Women’s fertility declines with age, becoming more noticeable after the age of 35. This decline is primarily due to a lower number and quality of eggs. There is an overall rise in this rate due to lower number and quality of eggs. According to Dr. Nandita Palshetkar, Obstetrician, Gynecologist, Director, Bloom IVF India, President, Indian IVF Society (ISAR), women between the ages of 30 and 40 can expect a 15 to 20% chance of getting pregnant each month. Also, older women have a higher risk of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities, including the risk of having a baby with Down syndrome. The rate of decline becomes more pronounced as women approach their 30s and 40s.
Fertility in men also declines due to age, but at a slower rate than in women. Beginning around age 40, there is typically a change in sperm quality, affecting motility (how well they move) and morphology (the shape of the sperm). These low-quality sperm reduce the chances of successful fertilization and increase the likelihood of genetic disorders among children. In addition, older fathers are more likely to have children with conditions such as autism and schizophrenia.
Adverse effects and difficulties
Women over the age of 35 are more likely to develop pregnancy-related complications, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preeclampsia. These health problems can lead to further complications, such as premature birth or even the need for a cesarean section. Women of advanced maternal age may also have more problems during the delivery period, such as prolonged periods of labor or having to be assisted with forceps or vacuum extraction procedures.
Men are not at the same risk as women. However, older men can also experience pregnancy-related complications. Older fathers are more likely to have premature or low-birth-weight children. Advanced paternal age also leads to poorer sperm quality and more genetic mutations that can cause defects or other genetic disorders.
Tips for a healthy pregnancy
For women over 35 who want to get pregnant, lifestyle modifications are essential. Eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and controlling weight can improve fertility and minimize pregnancy complications. In addition, they should consider abstaining from smoking and drinking alcohol and working on stress management. Taking folic acid and other vitamins before pregnancy can help reduce the chances of developing neural tube defects.
Men over 35 should also consider leading a healthy lifestyle. A diet rich in antioxidants is beneficial for sperm quality. In addition, for better fertility, weight control, exercise, and avoiding excessive tobacco and alcohol consumption should be considered. It is very important to control chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension, as they can have a negative impact on sperm quality and reproductive health.
Couples who are unable to conceive naturally may consider assisted reproductive technology (ART), such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF). However, it should be noted that the older the woman, the lower the success rate of ART.
It is possible to have children after age 35, and many people manage to have healthy children later in life. That said, it is important to note that this path comes with certain conditions and limitations. By being aware of how age affects fertility, taking steps to maintain health, and seeking medical advice when necessary, both men and women can improve their chances of having a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.
