Late motherhood trend: Deepika, Katrina, Sonam and truth about pregnancy risks after 35

A recent Instagram post by Deepika Padukone about her pregnancy has once again sparked conversations around having children later in life. She is not alone. Sonam Kapoor also recently welcomed her second child, reflecting a growing trend among celebrities embracing motherhood in their late 30s and 40s. From Katrina Kaif to several other public figures, late pregnancies are becoming more visible and widely accepted, signalling a shift in how society views the “right time” to have a baby.

Read more: Eggs don’t lie: The real science behind pregnancy at 40

While medical progress has made this more possible than ever, the body still follows its own pace. Pregnancy at this stage, often called advanced age pregnancy, brings a mix of possibilities and added challenges.

What does “Advanced Age Pregnancy” mean?

Doctors use the term AMA when a woman is 35 or older at the time of delivery. It does not mean something will go wrong. Many women in this age group have smooth pregnancies.

However, as the years go by, the body naturally changes. Hormones fluctuate, organs do not function exactly the same way, and overall health patterns shift. These changes can increase the chances of complications during pregnancy, labour, and even recovery after birth.

The positive side is that careful monitoring, regular doctor visits, and healthy daily habits can go a long way in reducing risks.

Why blood pressure becomes a concern

One of the first things doctors watch closely in later pregnancies is blood pressure.

With age, blood vessels tend to stiffen slightly, making them less adaptable. This can lead to pregnancy-related hypertension. In some cases, it may develop into preeclampsia, a condition where high blood pressure is combined with signs of organ stress, often involving the liver or kidneys.

If not addressed in time, it can result in serious complications such as seizures, stroke, or the need for early delivery.

The emotional and physical impact of pregnancy loss

Another reality is the increased chance of miscarriage or stillbirth.

As women age, egg quality gradually declines. This raises the likelihood of chromosomal issues, especially in early pregnancy. Statistics show that while younger women face lower risks, the chances increase after 35 and rise further after 40.

Read more: 30, 35, 40…does age really matter for having a baby? 

Apart from the physical effects, pregnancy loss can take a deep emotional toll, particularly if it happens more than once or is linked to complications.

Blood sugar and gestational diabetes

Managing blood sugar can become more difficult in later pregnancies.

Gestational diabetes occurs when the body cannot regulate glucose levels effectively during pregnancy. Age-related changes in metabolism and insulin response make this more common in older mothers.

This condition can lead to infections, longer labour, or delivery complications. It may also result in a larger-than-average baby, which can make childbirth more physically demanding and increase the risk of injury.

There is also a long-term impact, as women who experience gestational diabetes have a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes later.

Early birth and recovery challenges

Pregnancy in the 40s is also linked to a slightly higher chance of delivering before 37 weeks.

Premature babies often require specialised care, which can be stressful for new mothers. This added emotional pressure, along with physical exhaustion, can make the postpartum phase more intense.

Recovery may take longer too. Some women experience heavy bleeding after delivery, slower healing, and persistent fatigue. Hormonal shifts, lack of sleep, and the constant demands of caring for a newborn can make this period even more overwhelming.

Read more: Understanding women’s health at every age: Key changes from adolescence to menopause

Labour may not always go as planned

Labour itself can be a bit less predictable. The uterus and cervix may not respond as efficiently as they do in younger pregnancies. This can result in slower labour, weaker contractions, or the need for medical induction.

There is also a greater likelihood of requiring a Caesarean section. This could be due to the baby’s position, delayed labour progress, or existing conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

So, is pregnancy at 40 a bad idea?

Not at all. It simply means being more aware and prepared.

Many women today have healthy pregnancies in their 40s. The key difference is that these pregnancies often need closer attention and care.

(Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Readers are advised to consult a qualified healthcare professional or doctor for personalised guidance, diagnosis, or treatment.)