Impact of Maternal Age on Pregnancy

Abstract

Objective: To assess impact of maternal age on obstetric and neonatal outcomes in Al-Madinah region.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study derived from database of the medical records of Madinah Maternal and Children Hospital (MMCH) from January 2017 to December 2017 after gaining the ethical approval from MMCH.

The targeted maternal age divided into three groups: women younger than 20 years, women 20-35 years, and women over 35 years.

Result: 849 pregnancy cases collected. Women aged \(\ge\) 35 years accounted for a 47% of abortion cases, 66.3% of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), 59% of Caesarian section (LSCS), 71.5% stillbirth and a 55.8% of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions.

Conclusion: Maternal age has an impact on obstetric and neonatal outcomes.

Advanced maternal age is a risk factor for miscarriage, GDM, CS, stillbirth and NICU admission. Adolescent mothers are more likely to have other complications as well. Maternal age is one significant factor that could affect obstetric and neonatal outcomes hence, the need for education of women about the safe age for planning a pregnancy and importance of antenatal care.