I am 35 years old and hoping to become pregnant soon. What are my risks because of my age?

Older women appear to have an increased risk of several things when they become pregnant. Medical problems such as high blood pressure and diabetes are more common. Miscarriage rates increase and fertility rates decrease. However, one of the biggest concerns is the greater risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities as the woman’s age increases. The most commonly known one is Down’s syndrome, however other syndromes are also increased. Women who are 35 at the expected date of delivery are offered genetic testing. The final decision about getting tested however, is that of the patient, not the doctor.