Definition of elder childbearing
Elderly childbearing refers to the pregnancy and childbearing of women at the age of 35 and above. With the development of society and the improvement of people's living standards, more and more women choose to postpone childbearing in order to pursue career success or prepare for better economic and family conditions. However, there are also some risks associated with elderly childbearing, which need to be carefully weighed.
Physical health risks
With the growth of age, the functions of female reproductive organs will gradually decline, thus increasing the risk of pregnancy and childbirth. First of all, after the age of 35, the ovarian function of women begins to gradually decline, and the quality and quantity of eggs will also decline, reducing the chance of natural pregnancy. Secondly, complications during pregnancy, such as hypertension, diabetes and placental dysfunction, will also increase with age. Finally, older pregnant women are associated with risks such as threatened preterm birth and fetal distress.
For example, experts in obstetrics and gynecology in Beijing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital pointed out that older pregnant women are more likely to have placental dysfunction, which will lead to insufficient oxygen supply to the fetus, thus causing problems such as fetal growth retardation and premature delivery.
Risk of genetic diseases
Age also increases the risk of children suffering from genetic diseases. The main reason for children's genetic diseases is the decline in the quality of the mother's eggs, leading to chromosomal abnormalities. For example, women over 35 years of age have a significantly increased risk of developing Down syndrome infants.
Experts from the Department of Genetics of Peking University Hospital said that the older a woman's egg, the higher the chance of genetic mutation. Therefore, older pregnant women should receive more comprehensive prenatal screening and genetic counseling to detect and prevent potential genetic diseases as soon as possible.
Risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth
The risk of complications in the pregnancy and delivery period of elderly pregnant women is also higher than that of young pregnant women. For example, experts from Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital pointed out that older pregnant women are more likely to suffer from pregnancy induced hypertension, gestational diabetes, and too much or too little amniotic fluid. These complications may have a negative impact on the health of pregnant women and fetuses.
In addition, older pregnant women may also face more risks during childbirth. For example, the proportion of prolonged labor, dystocia and cesarean section is high.
Risk of psychosocial pressure
In addition to physical risks, giving birth at an advanced age can also bring psychosocial pressure. The prejudice and doubt of the society against the elderly mothers often make them feel anxious and uneasy. They need to bear the pressure from relatives, friends, doctors and the media, and worry that they will not be able to successfully conceive, give birth and take care of children.
Therefore, older expectant mothers need more psychological support and care to cope with possible stress and emotional fluctuations.
summary
Elderly childbearing refers to the pregnancy and childbearing of women at the age of 35 and above. There are some risks associated with elderly childbearing, including physical health risk, genetic disease risk, pregnancy and childbirth complications risk and psychosocial stress risk. Therefore, women should carefully consider giving birth at an advanced age, and conduct a comprehensive health assessment and consultation before pregnancy.
