Navigating Pregnancy After 35

3/6/2026

Dr. Gus Zamora Shares Steps Expectant Mothers Can Take to Minimize Age-Related Risks

More women than ever are choosing to grow their families later in life, and while pregnancy after age 35 can come with additional considerations, most women go on to have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.

Dr. Gus Zamora, board-certified OB/GYN with Victoria Women’s Clinic, says preparation, education and consistent prenatal care make all the difference.

“Pregnancy after 35 is very common today,” said Dr. Zamora. “While we do monitor a few additional risk factors, the vast majority of women in this age group have positive outcomes. The key is staying proactive and partnering closely with your provider.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, women over 35 now account for about 20% of pregnancies in the United States. This group may have a slightly higher risk of conditions such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and longer labor. Babies may also face increased risks of preterm birth or low birth weight.

“Age is one factor — but it’s not the only factor,” Dr. Zamora explained. “We look at the whole patient — medical history, lifestyle and overall health — and tailor care to meet her specific needs.”

Understanding Gestational Diabetes

One condition providers monitor closely in pregnancies after age 35 is gestational diabetes, a form of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy.

According to DeTar diabetic educator Leslie Kubecka, RN, the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes increases with age.

“Patients age 35 have about a 20 percent greater risk of developing gestational diabetes,” Kubecka explained. “By age 40 that risk increases to around 40 percent, and by age 45 it can rise as high as 80 percent.”

Gestational diabetes occurs when hormones produced by the placenta increase insulin resistance in the mother’s body. In some cases, the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to compensate, causing blood sugar levels to rise.

When not carefully managed, gestational diabetes can increase the likelihood of babies being large for gestational age, which may complicate delivery. After birth, some babies may experience temporary low blood sugar because their bodies are still producing higher levels of insulin.

“Babies may need extra feeding, glucose gel or IV fluids with glucose until their blood sugar levels stabilize,” Kubecka said.

Gestational diabetes can also have long-term implications, increasing the child’s risk of developing diabetes later in life and raising the mother’s chances of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Because of these risks, screening for gestational diabetes is a routine and important part of prenatal care.

Recommended Screenings and Monitoring

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends additional evaluations for women 35 and older, which may include:

• Early assessment for high blood pressure or underlying medical conditions
• Genetic screening options
• Targeted ultrasounds
• Screening for gestational diabetes

“These tools help us identify concerns early,” said Dr. Zamora. “Early detection allows us to manage issues before they become serious.”

Supporting a Healthy Pregnancy

While age can influence risk, daily habits remain incredibly important. Dr. Zamora encourages expectant mothers to:

• Avoid smoking and alcohol
• Eat balanced, nutritious meals
• Get adequate rest
• Stay physically active, as recommended
• Attend all prenatal appointments

“Healthy choices still matter at every age,” Dr. Zamora said. “When women prioritize their health, they significantly improve outcomes for themselves and their babies.”

Bailee Curry, M.S., RDN, L.D., clinical nutrition manager/registered dietitian nutritionist with DeTar Healthcare System, echoed Dr. Zamora’s sentiment, “Nutrition plays such an incredible role in all stages of our lives. I encourage all individuals to take control of their nutrition and support optimal health.” Curry shared, “Gestational diabetes is multi-factorial and appropriate nutrition plays a key role in managing it, so I am here to educate, empower and help individuals navigate their health and nutrition.”

Planning Ahead Makes a Difference

For women considering pregnancy after 35, Dr. Zamora recommends scheduling a preconception visit.

"A preconception appointment allows us to review medical history, manage any chronic conditions and start prenatal vitamins before pregnancy begins,” he said. “That planning stage can have a meaningful impact on both maternal and fetal health.”

Maternity care, prenatal education and delivery services are available locally at DeTar Hospital North, ensuring families in the Crossroads have access to high-quality OB care close to home.

To learn more about maternity services, visit https://www.detar.com/maternity-care-services.

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