A Review of Pregnancy in Women Over 35 Years of Age

The objective of the present paper is to review how pregnant women over 35 years have been described in previous research, and to review the risks associated with pregnancy in those of advanced maternal age. Computerized searches of the Cinahl, PubMed, Medic and Cochrane Library databases were undertaken. Research articles in scientific journals, relevant to the objective, and published in English between 2000 and 2008, were included. Data were extracted based on the aims, sample, authors, year and results. RESULTS: Advanced maternal age is associated with certain pregnancy-related risks. Being “at risk” causes anxiety and concern, which older pregnant women try to ease by being as well-informed as possible. This may be overwhelming to some women due to the large amount of information available. CONCLUSIONS: It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of the different feelings and experiences of older pregnant women in order to meet their individual needs within the maternity services.