Pregnancy at 18, 25, or 35+: the doctor explained when the body is best prepared

      As explained by Anatoly Tyan, an assistant at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Pirogov University, there is no universal age — much depends on the individual health condition of the woman. However, from a physiological standpoint, there is indeed a most favorable period for the first pregnancy. According to specialists, the optimal age is considered to be 22–30 years, with the peak physiological readiness of the body occurring between 25–28 years.

      — At this age, a woman retains a high ovarian reserve, the endometrium is better able to accept the embryo, and the cardiovascular and coagulation systems adapt more easily to the stresses of pregnancy, — explains the expert.

      In simpler terms, during this period, the body usually copes better with both the pregnancy itself and childbirth.

      Why is too early a pregnancy not the best option?

      Pregnancy before the age of 20, according to doctors, is associated with additional risks. Among them:

      anemia;

      premature birth;

      low birth weight of the fetus.

      The reason is simple: the body of a young woman, especially in her teenage years, may still be in the stage of final physiological maturation.

      — It’s not about the impossibility of carrying a healthy child, but about the higher risks of complications compared to pregnancy at the optimal reproductive age, — notes the doctor.

      Why do risks increase after 35?

      After 35, reproductive risks gradually increase. With age, the likelihood of natural conception decreases, while the probability of complications during pregnancy increases.

      The main risks include:

      gestational diabetes;

      hypertension;

      complications related to the placenta;

      increased likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.

      For example, the frequency of chromosomal disorders increases with the mother's age: approximately 1 in 1000 at 25 years, 1 in 400 at 35 years, and about 1 in 100 by 40 years. Additionally, after 40, the risk of miscarriage significantly increases.

      Does this mean that it is too late to give birth after 35? No. Modern medicine allows for successful pregnancies even after 35 and 40 years. However, such pregnancies usually require more careful monitoring and expanded screening.

      — Pregnancy after 35 is not a contraindication. It simply requires a more attentive approach and regular monitoring by specialists, — emphasizes Anatoly Tyan.

      The main conclusion from doctors is simple: from a medical standpoint, the most favorable balance between fertility, risks for the mother and child, as well as recovery speed, is usually observed at the age of 25–30 years.

      But the final decision about motherhood always remains with the woman herself — taking into account her health, life circumstances, and personal readiness.