Pregnancy: Why can pregnancy after 35 be dangerous? An IVF expert reveals the inside story..

With changing times, people's needs are also changing. Now, due to career aspirations, financial stability, and better medical facilities, becoming a mother at the age of 35 or older (late pregnancy) has become quite common.

Although most women give birth to healthy babies even at this age, increasing age does bring some challenges that need to be understood. Birth defects become more common after the age of 35, so on the occasion of National Birth Defects Awareness Month, we spoke to Dr. Astha Gupta, Senior IVF Consultant, Infertility Expert, Obstetrics and Gynecology at Delhi IVF, New Delhi, and learned how late pregnancy can cause birth defects.

Decreasing Egg Quality

The doctor explains that as women age, the quality of their eggs is naturally affected. After 35, the chances of Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities increase slightly. Experts believe that this problem is more related to 'biological age' than lifestyle.

Pregnancy-Related Problems
Conceiving later in life increases the risk of problems like gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy), high blood pressure, and thyroid problems in women. If these are not controlled, they can affect the baby's development. In some cases, it can also cause problems related to the baby's heart or spine.

Medical Science Has Made the Path Easier

The good news is that medical science has advanced considerably. Now, any potential problems can be detected in time through blood tests, high-level ultrasounds, and genetic screening. This helps parents make the right decisions and plan for treatment.

Keep These Things in Mind

If you are planning a family after the age of 35, be sure to keep these points in mind as advised by the doctor:

Pre-conception checkup: Before conceiving, consult a doctor and get a health checkup. Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight and completely avoid smoking and alcohol.

Supplements: Start taking folic acid and vitamins as advised by your doctor.
With proper care and regular medical checkups, a healthy and safe pregnancy is entirely possible even at an older age.