Number of older mums growing

Released on 15/06/2009

RCOG study group on older mothers

Background

In response to growing concern over the rising incidence of later maternal age in the UK, the RCOG convened a Study Group to meet today to discuss the issues. Research shows there is a growing trend in the UK for childbearing to occur at a later time in women’s lives.  

RCOG says there is an urgent need for better public information on the issues surrounding later maternity.  Women should be supported, rather than constrained, in their life choices. However, both women and society need to be aware of the possible problems that older mothers may encounter.  

RCOG reports that later maternal age is an emerging public health issue and organisations such as themselves, NICE and the Centre for Maternal and Child Enquiries (CMACE) must work together with the Department of Health to tackle these new challenges.   

Quote

Mary Newburn, Head of Research and Information, National Childbirth Trust - NCT-, says;

“The number of women giving birth over the age of 35 has risen steadily during the last decade, albeit the number giving birth over 40 is still relatively small. Nevertheless, many older women, who are fit and well, can go on to have a straightforward pregnancy and a healthy baby. It’s therefore vital that women have balanced information about the additional risks associated with giving birth at an older age.  

“There are many reasons for women choosing to have their children later on in life; including a desire to build a career or to achieve financial independence. We now need to look at how we can make it possible for women to have career breaks earlier on and to enable them to have children at a younger age. Likewise, the introduction of shared parental leave should lead to less pressure on women to reach a certain point in their career before having children. “

ENDS 

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