Summary
More women in the U.S. are having babies later in life, with 21% of births in 2023 involving mothers aged 35 and older. There are higher health risks for both mothers and babies in these cases, but doctors emphasize ways to lower these risks, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting recommended medical tests.
Key Facts
- In 2023, 21% of U.S. births were to women aged 35 and older, up from 9% in 1990.
- Older mothers face higher risks of conditions like high blood pressure and obesity during pregnancy.
- Such pregnancies have a higher chance of complications, cesarean sections, and twin births.
- Doctors recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle before getting pregnant to minimize risks.
- Suggested prenatal tests include first-trimester ultrasounds and noninvasive prenatal screening for genetic abnormalities.
- Older women are more likely to use fertility treatments, increasing the chance of multiple births.
- Regular medical checkups before conception and during pregnancy are advised to manage health conditions and ensure a healthy pregnancy.
