Modern women are waiting until later to have children. It’s not uncommon for first children to be born in a woman’s 30s.  But there are benefits to having children younger, too. The OBGYN experts at Advanced OB-GYN Services, in Saint Peters, MO, explain the differences between having children in your 20s and 30s. 

Differences in Pregnancy from the 20s to the 30s

1. Energy

In some ways, the 20s is the ideal time for your body to have a baby. There are more natural energy reserves during pregnancy and after when caring for a newborn. Moms in their 30s are still perfectly able to manage, but may find they must cope with lower energy levels during pregnancy and are more impacted by sleep deprivation and losing baby weight after delivery.

2. Health Risks

The 20s is the time when most healthy women are at the lowest risk for gestational diabetes, preeclampsia (high blood pressure brought on by pregnancy), chromosomal disorders in the baby, miscarriage, and C-section delivery. The risk of all these conditions, say OBGYN doctors, as well as ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, increases with age, although the early 30s are still relatively low risk if there are no other health concerns.

3. Fertility

Fertility decreases with age. Women in their twenties may have an easier time getting pregnant than those in their 30s, and young women have the largest supply of normal, undamaged eggs. OBGYN practitioners consider 35 “advanced maternal age” and will inform patients that risks increase as fertility decreases. Women in their 30s have about a 15% chance of getting pregnant in a regular menstrual cycle, and women in their late 30s are more likely to need fertility treatments.  

4. Psychology & Lifestyle

In their 20s, women are still figuring out who they are. They are likely building a career, have a newer relationship, and may be struggling with college debt. Energy and fertility are high, but the psychological readiness or desire to have a child may be low. Some women who choose to have children in their 20s do so because they know they want more than one child, their mothers were young and that was a positive experience, or they don’t want to deal with the health risks of being an older mom. Women in their 30s, by contrast, have built a career, saved money, have more financial stability, and likely feel more prepared for the responsibility of motherhood. Their partners may also feel ready, and there may be a more equal approach to parenting. 

Having a baby is a natural and wonderful choice, whether you are in your 20s or 30s. Knowing the benefits and risks helps you to make an informed decision.

Advanced OB-GYN Services offers complete OBGYN care. Dr. Joseph Hazan has delivered more than 6000 babies to St. Peters and Bridgeton, MO, parents, and that’s why his patients have been recommending him to their friends and family. With 30 years in practice, know that you are in good hands with their caring and professional staff. Visit their website to learn more about their services or call (636) 928-1800 for an appointment.