Pregnant After 35 — Is It Really Higher Risk?
An episode about fertility and pregnancy in your mid-30s and beyond — how age fits into the picture, and when it is worth speaking to a gynaecologist if you are trying to conceive.
Dear Mama — Pregnant After 35: Is It Really Higher Risk?
Is 35 really a major fertility and pregnancy milestone? In this episode of Dear Mama, Dr Shilla addresses a question many women have when considering pregnancy in their mid-30s and beyond. She explains that fertility does decline after 35, but age should be considered together with a woman's overall health and individual circumstances. For women over 35 who are trying to conceive, Dr Shilla also shares when she would recommend seeking further medical advice.
Key Takeaways
- Fertility does decline after 35 — female fertility declines with age, and Dr Shilla explains that the decline becomes more relevant after the age of 35.
- Age is not the only factor — age matters, but it should not be considered in isolation. A woman's overall health and individual medical circumstances are important when discussing fertility and pregnancy.
- 35 is not a sudden cut-off — turning 35 does not mean that pregnancy suddenly becomes impossible. Fertility changes with age rather than switching at a single birthday.
- Health and individual circumstances matter — Dr Shilla highlights that women today may have different health, nutrition and life circumstances compared with women several decades ago. Pregnancy considerations should therefore be discussed in the context of the individual woman.
- If you are over 35 and trying to conceive, don't wait too long to seek advice — Dr Shilla's advice is that if you are over 35, have been trying to conceive for around six months and have not become pregnant, consider speaking with a gynaecologist — even if you have no known medical problems.
Relevant FAQs
Dear Mama 🤍 This content is for general educational purposes only. Every woman’s circumstances are different, so please speak with your doctor for advice specific to you.
Thinking about pregnancy after 35?
You do not have to have all the answers before speaking to a doctor.