Blooming flower with a pregnant woman silhouette representing pregnancy after 40.

Pregnancy After 40: Understanding the Risks and Maximizing Your Chances of a Healthy Outcome

Rhea Morgan in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Advanced maternal age can bring unique challenges, but with the right knowledge and care, a safe and healthy pregnancy is possible."

The number of women choosing to have children later in life is increasing. While this can be a fulfilling choice, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with advanced maternal age (typically defined as 40 years or older). Research indicates a link between maternal age and a higher chance of certain pregnancy complications.

A study conducted at Omdurman New Hospital in Sudan examined the pregnancy outcomes of women aged 40 and older compared to those between 18 and 39. The findings shed light on the specific risks that older mothers may face, providing valuable information for both expectant mothers and healthcare providers.

This article will delve into the key findings of the Omdurman New Hospital study, offering a clear and accessible explanation of the potential challenges associated with pregnancy after 40. We'll also discuss steps you can take to minimize these risks and improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

What the Research Says: Key Risks for Pregnancies After 40

Blooming flower with a pregnant woman silhouette representing pregnancy after 40.

The Omdurman New Hospital study compared 100 women aged 40 or older with 200 women between 18 and 39. The researchers looked at a range of pregnancy outcomes, identifying several key differences between the two groups.

Here's a breakdown of some of the significant risks that were found to be more prevalent in women aged 40 and older:

Gestational Hypertension: Older mothers had a higher incidence of high blood pressure during pregnancy (23% vs. 13.5% in the younger group).
Gestational Diabetes: The study also revealed a higher percentage of older mothers developing diabetes during pregnancy (8% vs. 4%).
Antepartum Hemorrhage: Bleeding during pregnancy was more common in the older group.
Preterm Labor and Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM): Older mothers experienced a greater risk of going into labor early or having their water break prematurely.
Perinatal Death: Sadly, the study found a higher rate of stillbirths in the older maternal age group.
Cesarean Section: Older mothers were more likely to deliver via C-section (47% vs. 36.5% in the younger group).

While these findings might seem alarming, it's crucial to remember that they represent statistical trends. Many women over 40 have perfectly healthy pregnancies and deliveries. Understanding these potential risks empowers you to take proactive steps for a safer pregnancy.

Turning Knowledge into Action: Steps for a Healthier Pregnancy

If you're planning a pregnancy at 40 or older, knowledge is your greatest asset. By understanding the potential risks, you can work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan that minimizes these risks and maximizes your chances of a healthy outcome.

Here are some key steps you can take:

<ul><li>Preconception Counseling: Discuss your plans with your doctor to assess your overall health and identify any potential risk factors.</li><li>Optimizing Your Health: Focus on maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise.</li><li>Close Monitoring: Expect more frequent prenatal checkups and screenings to monitor your health and the baby's development.</li><li>Managing Existing Conditions: If you have any pre-existing conditions like hypertension or diabetes, work with your doctor to manage them effectively.</li><li>Open Communication: Don't hesitate to ask your healthcare provider any questions or concerns you may have throughout your pregnancy.</li></ul>

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.14419/ijm.v3i2.5357, Alternate LINK

Title: Advanced Maternal Age And Late Pregnancy Outcome At Omdurman New Hospital In Sudan

Subject: General Medicine

Journal: International Journal of Medicine

Publisher: Science Publishing Corporation

Authors: Khalid Ahmed, Shireen Ahmed, Siddig Handady, Awad Alawad, Sulafa Ali

Published: 2015-10-23

Everything You Need To Know

What specific risks were identified in the Omdurman New Hospital study for pregnancies in women over 40?

The Omdurman New Hospital study indicated that women aged 40 and older face a higher risk of certain complications during pregnancy, including gestational hypertension (high blood pressure), gestational diabetes, antepartum hemorrhage (bleeding during pregnancy), preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes (PROM), perinatal death (stillbirths), and a greater likelihood of Cesarean section deliveries.

What is considered advanced maternal age, and what are the implications of this condition based on recent research?

Advanced maternal age, typically defined as 40 years or older, is associated with increased risks such as gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, antepartum hemorrhage, preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, perinatal death, and Cesarean section. These conditions can affect both the mother's and the baby's health, requiring careful monitoring and management throughout the pregnancy.

What is gestational hypertension, and how did it affect the women in the Omdurman New Hospital study?

Gestational hypertension refers to high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy. The Omdurman New Hospital study found a higher incidence of gestational hypertension in older mothers (23%) compared to younger mothers (13.5%). Unmanaged gestational hypertension can lead to complications such as preeclampsia, which affects both the mother's organs and the baby's development. Management includes regular monitoring of blood pressure, dietary changes, and medication if necessary.

Besides the risks identified in the Omdurman New Hospital study, what other factors or long-term effects are relevant to pregnancies after 40 that were not covered?

While the Omdurman New Hospital study highlights specific risks associated with pregnancy after 40, such as gestational diabetes and hypertension, it doesn't delve into the potential impacts on the child's long-term development. Further research could explore whether children born to older mothers face any unique health or developmental challenges as they grow. Also, the study does not discuss the potential benefits of preconception counseling and interventions to mitigate risks associated with advanced maternal age.

Based on the research, what steps can be taken to minimize risks and promote a healthier pregnancy for women over 40?

To mitigate the risks associated with advanced maternal age during pregnancy, it's crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan. Regular prenatal checkups, monitoring for conditions like gestational hypertension and diabetes, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key. The Omdurman New Hospital study underscores the importance of awareness and proactive management to improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy and delivery.