Today, many women are choosing to start their families later in life — often after they’ve built their careers, traveled, or reached personal milestones. While pregnancy after the age of 35 is more common than ever, it is clinically referred to as Advanced Maternal Age (AMA) and does carry certain increased risks. However, with proper care, especially with the support of fetal medicine specialists, women can enjoy healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies.
What is Advanced Maternal Age?
Advanced maternal age refers to pregnancy in a woman who is 35 years or older at the time of delivery. It’s important to note that age alone doesn’t define a high-risk pregnancy, but it can be associated with a few additional considerations.
Potential Risks with Pregnancy After 35
While many women over 35 have completely normal pregnancies, statistics show that certain risks may be slightly higher, including:
- Increased chances of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome
- Higher risk of miscarriage
- Gestational diabetes and high blood pressure
- Placental problems
- Preterm labor and delivery complications
- Cesarean section rates tend to be higher
- Lower fertility and difficulty conceiving
It’s essential to understand that these risks don’t guarantee complications — they simply mean that closer monitoring and proactive care are important.
How Fetal Medicine Helps
This is where fetal medicine plays a critical role. With the guidance of a Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist, expectant mothers over 35 receive advanced care, detailed assessments, and evidence-based management tailored to their needs.
Here’s how fetal medicine can improve pregnancy outcomes:
- Early Risk Screening:
First-trimester screenings and non-invasive prenatal tests (NIPT) help assess the baby’s chromosomal health. - Targeted Anomaly Scans:
Detailed ultrasounds, such as the TIFFA scan and fetal echocardiography, help detect structural abnormalities early. - Monitoring for Maternal Health Issues:
Mothers over 35 are more prone to gestational diabetes or hypertension. Regular monitoring ensures early detection and treatment. - Genetic Counseling:
Specialists provide information and options in case of abnormalities or family history of genetic disorders. - Individualized Birth Planning:
With expert guidance, a safe and well-planned delivery can be scheduled, reducing labor risks.
Trusted Expertise in Faridabad
Dr. Mamta Phogat, the best Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist in Faridabad, offers expert care for women with advanced maternal age. With personalized attention and state-of-the-art diagnostics, she ensures both mother and baby are safe throughout the journey.
Conclusion
Being pregnant after 35 can be a joyful and fulfilling experience. With the right medical care, especially under a skilled fetal medicine specialist, the risks associated with advanced maternal age can be managed effectively. Age is just a number — with knowledge, planning, and support, a healthy pregnancy is absolutely possible.