Episode 128: Advanced Maternal Age

Advanced maternal age is defined as a pregnant individual who is 35 years of age or older at the estimated due date or date of delivery. Pregnancy at or beyond this age is considered a risk factor for adverse outcomes in the birthing person and baby.

When one is considered “advanced” in age, it is common for closer monitoring to be recommended during pregnancy. Induction of labor or elective cesarean birth are both considered appropriate options for managing labor and birth.

For the pregnant person, being labeled and frequently reminded of their “advanced” age can lead to many challenging emotions. Some individuals may desire to assert boundaries surrounding discussions about their age. Instead, they may prefer to focus on their actual risks vs the perceived or statistical risk.

Join us as we discuss the many complexities of supporting clients of “advanced” age during pregnancy.