The increased risk of medical and genetic complications starts when women turn age: Group of answer choices
15
35
21
60
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: 35
Explanation:
The increased risk of medical and genetic complications during pregnancy typically starts when women turn age 35. This age is often referred to in medical terms as “advanced maternal age”. Women who conceive at or after age 35 are more likely to face certain risks, both for themselves and their babies.
Why Age 35?
- Genetic Risks:
After age 35, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the baby—such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21)—significantly increases. This is because the quality and number of a woman’s eggs decrease with age, and errors during cell division become more common. - Pregnancy Complications:
Older mothers are more likely to experience complications such as:- Gestational diabetes
- High blood pressure (preeclampsia)
- Placenta previa
- Miscarriage
- Preterm birth
- Fertility Decline:
Fertility also naturally declines after age 30 and more sharply after 35, making it harder to conceive. Women may require fertility treatments like IVF, which come with their own risks. - Delivery Complications:
Women over 35 are more likely to require C-sections due to complications during labor or concern for fetal health.
Monitoring and Support
Women over 35 are often given more frequent prenatal screenings and tests, such as:
- Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)
- Amniocentesis
- Ultrasound monitoring
With proper prenatal care, many women over 35 have healthy pregnancies and babies. However, awareness of the increased risks helps doctors and patients take proactive measures.
Summary:
The threshold age for increased medical and genetic pregnancy complications is 35—not 15, 21, or 60. While younger women may face other challenges, the age of 35 is the clinical marker for heightened pregnancy-related risk.