More and more women in their late 30s and early 40s are deciding to have babies. Some put off motherhood because of career demands or so they could feel more financially secure. Some were waiting for the right partner. Some simply feel more emotionally prepared for motherhood later in life. By the time they're ready to get pregnant, they may be wondering how safe it is for themselves and their babies.

Many women older than 35 feel young and energetic enough to raise a family. It's much easier to get pregnant in your 20s and early 30s, but women are often able to conceive into their 40s. And as long as their health is good, they are likely to have a normal pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Still, there are risks associated with pregnancy after age 35 (which doctors call "advanced maternal age"). If you're thinking of having a baby at this age, it's wise to understand the risks. You can't change your age, but there are things you can do to ensure the best outcome for both you and your baby.

What are the risks?
Most pregnancies in older women have happy endings, but the risk of problems does increase with age. This is especially true if the mother has pre-existing health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure or obesity.

Compared to younger women, women older than 35 are at higher risk for:

• Infertility
• Dangerous high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia)
• Miscarriage
• Gestational diabetes
• Premature delivery
• Cesarean section
• Stillbirth
• A problem with the placenta, such as placenta previa
• A baby with a genetic disorder, such as Down syndrome

Age does raise these risks, but just being older doesn't mean you'll have problems. Your health is more important than your age when it comes to having a healthy baby.

How can I plan for a healthy pregnancy?
You can take steps to increase your odds of conceiving and having an uncomplicated pregnancy.

Before you get pregnant:

• See your doctor. Your doctor can review your health history, risks and medications and suggest ways to optimize your chance of a healthy pregnancy. This also gives you a chance to discuss any concerns you may have about conception or pregnancy. Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications or herbal supplements you are taking. Ask about exercise and what is safe for you.
• Be as healthy as you can be. Follow your doctor's advice about exercise, and eat a healthy diet. Start taking prenatal vitamins if your doctor recommends it. Try to get any health conditions under control. Don't smoke, and limit alcohol and caffeine.
• Know your fertility signs. Learn how to check your basal temperature and check your cervical mucus so you will know the best time to have sex to get pregnant.
• Check with your doctor if you haven't gotten pregnant after trying for six months. It often takes one to two years for a woman over 35 to become pregnant. But if you've been trying for more than six months, it's a good idea to visit your doctor. Fertility testing can help identify problems that could prevent pregnancy, including some problems that may be easily solved.

Once you are pregnant:

• Get regular prenatal checkups. Prenatal visits let your doctor monitor your baby's health and spot problems such as high blood pressure early.
• Learn about genetic testing. Your doctor can advise you about tests for Down syndrome and other genetic disorders.
• Eat a healthy, varied diet. Your nutrition needs are higher during pregnancy, so be sure to take a daily prenatal vitamin that contains folic acid.
• Stay physically active. Ask your doctor about a safe level of activity.
• Gain a healthy amount of weight. Your doctor can advise you of the proper amount. Gaining either too much or too little can have a negative impact on your health and your baby's health.
• Don't drink, smoke or use drugs. These increase your risk of complications and can harm your baby.
• Don't take any medications without talking to your doctor first. Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines can harm a developing fetus.

Related Articles Medications to Avoid When You're Pregnant Fertility Basics: Getting Pregnant Naturally Before You Get Pregnant: See Your Doctor Having a Baby Later in Life: Coping With the Risks and Anxiety

External Sources National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. High-risk pregnancy. . Accessed March 10, 2009 American Pregnancy Association. Ultrasound: sonogram. . Accessed May 18, 2009 Braveman FR. Pregnancy in patients of advanced maternal age. Anesthesiology Clinics of North America. 2006;24(3):637-646. . Accessed March 10, 2009 American Pregnancy Association. Trying to conceive after age 35. . Accessed March 10, 2009

This article was reviewed and updated 08-01-2009.