Today, many women choose to postpone motherhood until later in life for educational, career and social reasons. However, the biological changes that come with age can affect both general health and reproductive health. So what does advancing female age mean? What risks arise and what precautions can be taken?
What is Advanced Female Age?
Medically, “advanced maternal age” is usually used to describe women aged 35 and over. After 40, the risks become more pronounced. After this age, women are less likely to become pregnant and some health risks increase.
Effects of Advanced Age on Reproductive Health
1. Ovarian Reserve Decreases
The number of eggs that women are born with naturally decreases with age. After the age of 35, there is a significant decline in the number and quality of eggs. This situation:
- It reduces the chances of conception,
- Even if pregnancy occurs, it increases the risk of miscarriage,
- It can reduce the chances of success of assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF.
2. Egg Quality Declines
With age, not only the number of eggs decreases, but also their quality. The decline in egg quality increases the risk of chromosomal disorders. This also increases the risk of
- Increases the risk of miscarriage,
- Increases the likelihood of genetic diseases such as Down syndrome.
3. Risks may increase during pregnancy
Pregnancy at an older age can increase the risk of the following conditions:
- Gestational diabetes
- High blood pressure (pre-eclampsia)
- Placenta problems
- Premature birth
- Increase in caesarean section rates
Effects on General Health
Not only the reproductive system but also general health changes in older women:
1. Hormonal Irregularities Start
Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels lead to menstrual irregularities and symptoms of perimenopause. During this period
- Hot flashes
- Sleep problems
- Mood swings are frequent.
2. Bone Density Decreases
As estrogen levels fall, the risk of osteoporosis (bone loss) increases. This makes them more prone to bone fractures at an older age.
3. Cardiovascular Diseases Increase
In women, estrogen is a hormone that protects cardiovascular health. When it decreases with age, the risk of diseases such as heart attack and hypertension increases.
Is Pregnancy Possible in Old Age?
Yes, it is possible. Especially with assisted reproductive techniques (e.g. in vitro fertilization), it is possible to become a mother at an advanced age. However, this process requires more follow-up, testing and support.
With methods such as egg freezing, women can freeze their eggs at a young age to increase their chances of conceiving with better quality eggs in the future. This method is very valuable for women who postpone motherhood for career or other reasons.
Conception at an advanced age requires individualized follow-up and treatment. Regardless of your age, you should consult an obstetrician to get the right information about your general health and reproductive capacity and to manage the process under expert control.
Women are now freer, stronger and more conscious. Even with advancing age, both a healthy life and a healthy pregnancy are possible with the right planning and medical support. Get to know your body, do not neglect your regular check-ups and make your future decisions with confidence with expert support.