Advance Maternal Age

[kohlby]

I was wondering what was different while pg when you were 35+ as opposed to younger.  Do they offer or encourage more tests while pg?  Or is it basically the same as when you're younger but with that "Advance Maternal Age" on your chart?  I'm not currently pg, but I'm wondering.   (I'm 34.5 right now and not pg so there's no way I'm making under 35 for the next baby!)

[kohlby]

Thanks for your responses!  I'm currently undergoing extra pre-conception testing due to having my 4th miscarriage.  (Though I do have two healthy kids too).  I already have been bumped into higher risk next time due to one testing result.  (It's something that can likely be controlled with daily injections).  "Advance Maternal Age" didn't worry me before because I *know* the 35 is still young!  (And I managed to get pg in 4 cycles or less all 6 times).  But now I have one extra issue already and my testing isn't done yet.  I was hoping there wouldn't be much difference.  I'm getting annoyed with all the extra testing I have to do now - and I'm not even pg yet.  I know I won't be able to relax and enjoy being pg next time either, but I was hoping there would be less people wanting to use me as a pin cushion!

[dsmommy]

My pregnancy at 36 (37 when I deliver) has been very different.  Lots of extra tests that were not offered to me before including NT test, quad screen, etc.  I don't completely understand the whole  'Advanced Maternal Age' thing either but I guess they have to start somewhere.  And our eggs, bodies and things are not the same as they were in our twenties.  

It's not easy getting old!  LOL!

[Lastminutemama]

Here in Holland, all 36+ mothers-to-be are offered special testing for Down Syndrome etc and they say that a 36+ pregnancy is more risk (more chance for m/c) and it might take longer to conceive. My doctor told me that these are all statistics: there are many 36+ women who conceived easy and delivered healthy babies without any problem.

[shesherm]

my Dr says she doesnt know why they stress 35 because it's not like things change over night...but yes the eggs are getting older.  I was never PG before and being so close to "advanced maternal age" I'm not sure about the testing but we have had no other additional testing done.  Good luck
((Sheila))33w2d-Girl

[tahariel]

The testing seems the same at my doctor's office, although it appears the results are looked at a little more closely. 35 seems to be the "magic number" for raising some risks. However, there are so many women 35 and older who have all had perfectly healthy pregnancies and babies. Exercise, eat right, reduce stress, make healthy lifestyle choices and good luck!