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Ask A Childbirth Educator
Questions and Answer

Q. I was just wondering what types of tests, examines, procedures, etc. I will have to go through during my pregnancy/delivery since I am "OVER 35". Help. I'm nervous. Thanks.

A. Right now there is no research that shows that women who are over 35 are at any greater risk during pregnancy and labor, if they are healthy and have no preexisting medical conditions.

There is a greater risk of trisomy among their children, the most common being Down's syndrome. This is why genetic testing through amniocentesis is routinely offered to women who are over 35. Amniocentesis is where a needle is inserted into the amniotic sac to take a sample of the fluid. The chromosomes are examined to see if this variation is present. The test cannot tell to what degree the baby will be affected, however. Having the test is a matter of personal choice and no one should feel "forced" to have it. Women who will carry the pregnancy to term no matter what the results often waive the test. Other women take the test to be able to prepare themselves for the adjustments needed to parent a child who has Down's. Others take it to terminate the pregnancy if the baby is affected. These are all valid reasons to have the amniocentesis done or not done. You have the right to be fully informed regarding this and any medical procedure, regardless if you choose to have it or not.

If you are healthy and are having no problems, there should be no difference between your labor and pregnancy and any other healthy woman's.

Good luck!

Karen Klimsak-Ungar, CCE has been a certified childbirth educator for Birth Works® since 1996. She is currently Managing Editor for the Birth Works newsletter, sits on the Birth Works Board of Directors, and serves on their National Trainee Review Committee. A happily married mother of two, she also continues to teach Birth Works classes as well as private classes.

Karen will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.