Since the late 1970s, birth rates for women in their late 30s and 40s have increased dramatically. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, between 1978 and 2000, the birth rates for women age 35 to 39 and 40 to 44 more than doubled.
Many of today’s women are delaying childbearing until later in life for a variety of reasons. At the same time, unplanned pregnancies account for a large proportion of babies born to women over age 40. In addition, successful treatment of previously infertile women over 40 is on the rise. In fact, reports indicate successful pregnancies in women over age 60!
Advances in medical care now help women in their late 30s and 40s have safer pregnancies than in the past. However, women should be aware of the risks associated with later childbearing so that they can make informed decisions ab out their pregnancies . What risks do these women incur? Let’s examine the facts regarding pregnancy in this age group and strategies to reduce the risks.