Problems in Older Women during Pregnancy

In this context, older women refers to women aged 35 and above.

Risks of miscarriage increase steadily as the mother ages, more so after 40 yrs old. There are many factors. The egg quality is not optimum to be fertilized into a viable and healthy baby. The womb is more likely to have muscle growths such as fibroids which may increase the chances of miscarriage. Endometriosis and medical conditions such as heart diseases, diabetes, and kidney diseases are more common in older women. All these may cause miscarriage.

Increased chances of abnormal baby: Statistics have shown that chromosomal abnormalities (common one being Down's Syndrome) rises sharply after 35years of age. The risk of Down's at 35 years old is about 1 out of 400 pregnancies. At 40yrs old, the risk is l out of 100.

Complications during pregnancy and delivery: Premature births are more common in older women. Probability of stillbirths (babies die in the womb during pregnancy) increases with age. High blood pressure, diabetes and other medical conditions are more common during pregnancy. All these conditions affect both the mother and baby. Labor is usually more difficult and Caesarean section is more likely to be the mode of delivery.