Delayed Pregnancy: Good Or Bad For Your Baby

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Gone are the days when women had children at an early age. Times have changed since then. The current generation couples are delaying pregnancy owing to career responsibilities and a desire to secure financial stability.

But is delayed pregnancy good for you and the baby? Yes, the good news is that, if you are at an advanced maternal age, it’s good for your baby. Curious to know how? Here is an interesting study that indicates improved cognitive abilities in children born to mothers who had delayed their pregnancy.

A study (1) done in the UK revealed that children who were born to older mothers were cognitively better. The study involved women of two age groups (25-29) and (35-39) who delivered in the years 2000-2002. When the children were tested at the age of 10-11, it was found that the children of mothers who were older performed better. The results were compared to the studies done in the years 1958 and 1970; the previous studies showed a negative association between the older age of the mothers and the children’s cognitive skills.

The current study does not nullify the earlier studies but indicates that a change in the women’s educational and financial arena that impacted the children. In conclusion, the research states that the cognitive abilities of the children born to older women were high as the mothers are more mature, emotionally stable, and financially secure.

However, cognitive ability of a child is influenced by many factors, such as nutritious food, the health of the child, and resources such as books and developmental toys.

Moreover, medical science claims increased risk of genetic defects due to late pregnancy, and a greater risk involved if you are planning to have the first child beyond 35. But, these concerns are about the health of babies before and at birth and not in their development at a later stage.

Here are some complications associated with delayed pregnancy:

  1. Gestational diabetes: Gestational diabetes increases the weight of the baby, and in turn, the baby is prone to injuries during delivery.
  1. Placenta previa: Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta covers the whole or part of the cervix, causing severe bleeding in the mother and making it difficult for a natural birth to happen.
  1. Preeclampsia: Pregnancy in the late 30s and later increases the risk of preeclampsia (pregnancy-related hypertension).
  1. Fertility: The fertility levels reduce with your growing age.
  1. Miscarriage: The rate of miscarriage is more in women who cross 35.
  1. Chromosomal abnormalities: There is an increased risk of having a baby with chromosomal birth defects such as Down’s syndrome.
  1. Birth problems: There is high chance of stillbirth, low birth weight, and premature birth.
  1. Greater chances of Caesarean delivery.

But, you can avoid the risks associated with delayed pregnancy, thanks to the innovations in medical technology. Taking adequate prenatal care and following healthy eating habits right from the time you plan your family can help you in having a healthy baby.

What’s your opinion on delayed pregnancy?

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