After the age of 35, there are increased pregnancy risks for conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. The risk of early miscarriage due to abnormal fetal chromosomes and the risk of late loss both increase. For the baby, the number of chromosomes is more likely to develop in abnormal numbers (aneuploidy). This causes the fetus to miscarry most of the time. Too many chromosomes, such as trisomy 21 or 18 conditions, are the most commonly discussed genetic disorders in pregnancy over 35. A fetus may also experience monosomy disorders where they are missing a chromosome. Sex linked chromosomal disorders are also more likely to occur in mothers over the age of 35 and can cause disorders such as Klinefelter’s.
Genetic counseling may take place before or during pregnancy. Ideally this should be done before 12 weeks gestation. This would allow more people to prepare physically for the challenges of an advanced maternal age pregnancy. Genetic screening can test for down syndrome at 11-12 weeks. Anatomy ultrasound at 18-20 weeks can check for anatomical abnormalities in utero. A growth scan in the third trimester or in the case of mothers over 40 may be conducted. There may be fetal monitoring in the last month of these pregnancies. A non-stress test can be conducted to measure the baby’s heart beat and to assess the fluid surrounding the baby as a non-invasive means to make sure there are no abnormalities.
I believe that there are many misconceptions about reproduction after 35. I believe that everyone is unique biologically, but should be aware of general biological disadvantages that naturally occur in fertility with age. With so many technological and medical resources directed toward this field, I would absolutely consider a pregnancy after 35, given that I had access to the necessary resources previously described. Because of changes in societal and paternal patterns, more women are waiting to get married and have children due to preference or any number of life choices. Therefore, more women face the challenge of conception after 35.
Johnson, T. C. (2019, April 19). Pregnancy After Age 35. Retrieved from https:// www.webmd.com/baby/guide/pregnancy-after-35#1
Pregnancy Beyond Age 35 – Reviewing the Risks. (n.d.). Retrieved from https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=32pTLEmMLx4&feature=emb_title
Turner Syndrome (Monosomy X) in Children. (n.d.). Retrieved from https:// www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx? contenttypeid=90&contentid=p02421