In today’s world, many women are choosing to start or grow their families later in life—and that’s completely okay. But if you’re pregnant or planning to conceive after the age of 35, you may come across the term “Advanced Maternal Age” (AMA). What does it really mean? And more importantly, what should you expect?
As a fetal medicine specialist, I’m here to walk you through the facts, not the fears.
🧬 What Is Advanced Maternal Age?
Advanced Maternal Age refers to women who are 35 years or older at the time of delivery. While the term may sound clinical, it simply means that pregnancy at this stage requires closer monitoring and personalized care.
📈 What Changes After 35?
As we age, natural changes in reproductive biology occur. In pregnancy, this can translate to:
- Increased time to conceive
- Slightly higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities (like Down syndrome)
- Greater chances of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or preeclampsia
- Higher risk of miscarriage or preterm delivery
But here’s the good news: with today’s advancements in prenatal and fetal medicine, most women over 35 can enjoy a safe and healthy pregnancy with the right care.
🩺 How Fetal Medicine Can Help
Specialized fetal care can make a big difference in pregnancies over 35. Here’s how we support you:
- Early and detailed scans to monitor fetal development
- Genetic screening & counseling to assess chromosomal health
- Close tracking of maternal health to manage any emerging complications
- Personalized risk assessments to guide clinical decisions
- NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) for early chromosomal insights
🤰 Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy After 35
- Begin prenatal care early
- Maintain a balanced diet and stay active
- Take recommended prenatal vitamins, especially folic acid
- Manage existing medical conditions (diabetes, thyroid, hypertension, etc.)
- Stay informed and attend regular checkups
💬 Final Thoughts
Being 35 or older doesn’t define your ability to have a healthy baby—it simply means your pregnancy journey may need more attention and expertise. And that’s exactly what fetal medicine is here for.
With the right guidance, testing, and support, **age becomes just a number—**not a limitation.
