Record numbers of women are becoming pregnant later in life, sometimes for the first time. Older mothers may be more financially stable or settled in their careers, feeling more prepared to care for a baby than they did when they were younger. But do older mothers and their babies face additional risks?

Potential Problems

Research confirms that most women who become pregnant in their 30s and early 40s have safe, healthy pregnancies, but they face a higher risk of some problems:

• Trouble conceiving. In their early 30s, women become less fertile, and it may take them longer to get pregnant.

  Expecting her first child this fall, Paducah resident Holly Roberts makes exercise part of her daily routine.

• Complications during pregnancy. Women over 30 have a higher risk for diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancy.
• Greater risk of miscarriage. In fact, one study reported that more than one-half of pregnancies in women age 40 to 45 ended in miscarriage. For women 20 to 24 years of age, the rate was about 9 percent.

• Complications at delivery. Older women may need more help during labor and delivery. Cesarean section or instrument-assisted vaginal delivery are examples.

How does a mother’s age affect her baby? Researchers report that babies born to older mothers may have a higher risk for diabetes, prematurity and low birth weight.

Plan for Good Prenatal Care

Western Baptist obstetrician Sally Chaney, M.D., said most women over 30 have successful pregnancies and deliveries.

“Advances in medical care for both mother and baby can help prevent and treat many of the risks they face,” said Chaney. “And early and regular prenatal care is key to having a healthy baby at any age. It’s important to make sure you’re in good health before and during your pregnancy.”

Chaney said a healthy diet, regular exercise and avoidance of cigarettes and alcohol can help promote the baby’s growth, as well as the mother’s well-being.

Discuss any pregnancy plans with your doctor, who can identify your special needs and help make suggestions. Together, you and your doctor can help make pregnancy and motherhood a healthy experience.