In our country, more and more women decide to have a child in their 40s. Some decide to wait until this age to have a baby, some find themselves suddenly pregnant.
In all cases the question arises: "what are the risks of having a child at the age of 40"? Of course there are positive sides as well, but the woman has to face a change of the reproductive system.
Possible difficulties
Becoming a mother naturally at the age of 40 is not so rare, even if after the age of 35 the natural fertility drops. In fact, if at age 25 there is a 28% chance that ovulation will lead to pregnancy, the percentage drops to about 10% at age 40. The woman has a number of genetically determined oocytes, which decrease over the years. In addition, the uterus, ovaries and endometrium undergo a natural aging process.
Assisted or natural fertilization
Even if you rely on the medically assisted reproduction path to become a mother, there is less chance of success. Pregnancy, obtained both with assisted fertilization and naturally, may have more difficulties, there are more risks for miscarriage and premature birth.
The most common diseases
Pregnancy-related diseases of women are also more common, such as gestosis, gestational diabetes, hypertension and thyroid problems. The fetus is at a higher risk of having a chromosomal disease, for example Down syndrome.
Finally, pregnancies in their 40s most often end in cesarean section.
Definitions:
There are no direct health benefits to having a baby after the age of 40. However, delaying pregnancy can have some consequences that can improve a woman's mental and emotional well-being.
A 2020 study suggests that support from a partner, reduction of chronic stress, and a high quality relationship can lower the risk of postpartum depression.
People who wait until they have a good job with health insurance may also be able to afford higher quality medical care.
People with paid leave or their own company may be able to get longer parental leave, which may allow them more time to bond with the baby and recover from birth.
Greater stability at work, life or marriage of a person can also promote better health. A new parent who worries less about money may experience less stress./ Medical News Today /
