Advanced Maternal Age Defined & Demystified

Content medically reviewed by John M. Balintona, MD

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more Americans are giving birth at or after age 35, which is considered advanced maternal age. 

“There are many reasons for the shift toward pregnancies later in life,” said Dr. John M. Balintona, OB/GYN at Essentia Health. “Many people delay childbearing to pursue their education, careers, and personal aspirations. An increased availability of assisted reproductive technologies also empowers women should they choose to get pregnant later in life.”

Here are a few things to know about getting pregnant at an advanced maternal age.

Yes, You Can Get Pregnant if You’re 35 or Older

As you age, the number of eggs in your ovaries drops, which decreases your odds of becoming pregnant. If you are of advanced maternal age and have been trying to conceive without success for six months, fertility services can help increase your odds of pregnancy. These medical therapies include –

• Medication that encourages ovulation
• Sperm injected directly into the uterus
• Treatment for uterine fibroids or other health issues that affect fertility

Pregnancy Complications Are Not Inevitable 

Many people who get pregnant at an advanced maternal age have healthy pregnancies and deliveries. 

“Advanced maternal age offers substantial advantages,” Dr. Balintona said. “When you wait to get pregnant later in life, you’re more likely to have a stable career and parenting partnerships, both of which help the parenting journey go more smoothly.”

There is, however, a higher risk of pregnancy complications, such as – 

• Chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome
• Gestational diabetes
• Miscarriage
• Pre-eclampsia
• Premature birth 

You’re also more likely to give birth via caesarean section, according to research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 

Pregnancy Is Pregnancy

No matter your age or stage of life, pregnancy is pregnancy. It’s important to visit your provider regularly, take folic acid supplements as prescribed, and gain the recommended amount of weight.

Certain lifestyle choices can also increase your odds of a healthy pregnancy and delivery. For best results, Dr. Balintona recommends making healthy changes before getting pregnant. Lifestyle changes to consider include the following –

• Avoid tobacco and alcohol. 
• Follow pregnancy nutrition guidelines.
• Get regular exercise.
• Reach and maintain a healthy weight.
• Work with your provider to manage high blood pressure, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.

Special Care for Advanced Maternal Age Pregnancies

If you’re thinking of getting pregnant at an advanced maternal age, talk to your care provider. Ask about your specific risk factors and how to manage your risks for a healthy pregnancy.

If your pregnancy is considered high risk, your care team will take extra precautions to protect you and your little one. Through the course of your pregnancy, you’ll follow a tailored care plan, which may include –

• Discussion of your birth plan and wishes 
• Fetal testing to detect potential health issues that may affect the baby
• Noninvasive prenatal screenings 
• Ultrasound imaging examination 

In addition to your obstetrician, certified nurse midwife, or family medicine with obstetrics doctor, your care team may include a maternal-fetal medicine specialist. These experts specialize in caring for high-risk pregnancies. They work with your care providers to guide you through your pregnancy and delivery.

“Women of advanced maternal age can have safe and uncomplicated pregnancies,” Dr. Balintona said. “Our OB providers, maternal fetal medicine specialists, and others partner with you to make your pregnancy and delivery as safe and enjoyable as possible.”