Late in Life Babies. . .

Methuselah moms: Mothers are getting older

Compared with 20 to 29 year olds, women who give birth over 40 are two to three times more likely to have a premature baby and/or a low-birth weight one (under 2.5 kilograms), with the risk increasing with age. And although many small babies will survive, the smallest ones often suffer a host of medical problems at birth, such as respiratory distress. The effects can last a lifetime: such children tend to have poorer academic records and lower IQs as adults.

The biggest worry for older moms is the huge increase in the risk of having a baby with chromosomal disorders. The most common is Down's syndrome, the risk of which increases from 1 in 1,500 at 20 years old to 1 in 30 at 45.

Compared with 20 to 29 year olds, women who give birth over 40 are two to three times more likely to have a premature baby and/or a low-birth weight one (under 2.5 kilograms), with the risk increasing with age. And although many small babies will survive, the smallest ones often suffer a host of medical problems at birth, such as respiratory distress. The effects can last a lifetime: such children tend to have poorer academic records and lower IQs as adults.

The biggest worry for older moms is the huge increase in the risk of having a baby with chromosomal disorders. The most common is Down's syndrome, the risk of which increases from 1 in 1,500 at 20 years old to 1 in 30 at 45.

This article explores the societal trends, health issues, and more . . .

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