Pregnancy outcomes according to increasing maternal age

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatal Medicine
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Maternal age is a critical factor influencing pregnancy outcomes.
• Previous studies suggest a correlation between advanced maternal age and increased obstetric risks.
• Understanding these risks is crucial for optimizing prenatal care and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between increasing maternal age and adverse perinatal and obstetric outcomes.
• To quantify the risks of various adverse outcomes in different maternal age groups.
• To identify if there is a specific age threshold for increased risk.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 29,760 singleton pregnancies (2005-2008).
• Mothers were categorized into four age groups: 20-29, 30-34, 35-39, and ≥40 years.
• Multivariable logistic regression was employed to calculate adjusted odd ratios (AORs) for adverse outcomes, controlling for parity, BMI, medical history, and IVF use.

Main Results:

• Maternal age ≥35 years was linked to increased risks of low birth weight, low Apgar scores, and chromosomal anomalies.
• Women aged ≥30 years showed higher risks for gestational diabetes, placenta previa, and cesarean delivery.
• Advanced maternal age was also associated with increased rates of preterm delivery and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) transfers.

Conclusions:

• Increasing maternal age is an independent and significant risk factor for adverse perinatal and obstetric outcomes.
• Adverse outcomes become progressively more frequent with advancing maternal age.
• No clear age cutoff was identified; risks increase gradually with age.