O Impacto da idade materna avançada na gravidez e no parto

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate, based on scientific evidence, the impact of advanced maternal age on pregnancy and childbirth. The specific objectives were to identify the main gestational complications associated with advanced maternal age, such as gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus, and preeclampsia; and to examine the association between maternal age and the occurrence of complications during pregnancy. This is an integrative literature review. The search was conducted in the Scielo (Scientific Electronic Library Online), LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences), and Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde (BVS) databases using the following health science descriptors: "advanced maternal age," "gestational complications," "neonatal outcomes," and "childbirth," covering the period from 2018 to 2024. The analyzed studies confirm that women with advanced maternal age face an increased risk of gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus, and preeclampsia, as well as higher rates of cesarean sections and preterm births. These results emphasize the importance of more rigorous monitoring and an adapted approach to managing pregnancies in older women to minimize risks and promote better outcomes for both mother and baby.