The study is based on data from over 300,000 births between 2010 and 2022. The mothers were divided into age groups of 35 to 39 years, 40 to 44 years, and 45 years or older.
"The study showed that children of mothers 45 years and older had the highest risks," says AT doctor Sofia Voss, who is the study's first author.
She emphasizes that serious complications for the child are still uncommon in Sweden, regardless of the mother's age. Stillbirth occurred in 0.83 percent of pregnancies in women over 45 years, compared to 0.42 percent in the control group – 35 to 39 years. Premature birth occurred in 8.4 percent of cases when the mother was 45 years or older, which can be compared to 4.8 percent of cases when the mother was between 35 and 39 years.
"As the proportion of older mothers increases, our study can contribute to screening and interventions being targeted where they are most beneficial," says Sofia Voss about the study.
