Biological Clock & Baby
Vinita and Kumar Iyer seemed to have it all — a marriage made in heaven, brilliant careers, fabulous friends, an EMI-free home, and great health. At 38, Vinita started experiencing a lacuna. The sight of small children made her dreamy. With a jolt, she realised that her biological clock was ticking away. When she spoke about this to Kumar, he was a bit more apprehensive. At 42, he thought he was too old for fatherhood — and some of his cousins who became first-time fathers at an older age had children with developmental and other health issues.
As the Biological Clock Ticks…
Today, more and more women opt for babies at a later age. India has witnessed a tremendous rise in first-time mothers aged 35 and above. While many older women have easy pregnancies and perfectly healthy babies, doctors have been advising caution. Recent findings also suggest that a father’s age can affect the baby’s health.
Early studies reported reduced life expectancy in children born to older mothers. Many studies also point to increased risk of genetic abnormalities including Down syndrome among babies born to older parents. Geneticists attribute many adverse health effects to pregnancy-related complications as well as chromosomal and DNA changes. DNA damage in sperm has also been found to be associated with increased paternal age.
Genetic Screening
Considering the impact of genetics on the health of children born to older parents, most doctors recommend genetic screening. While standard procedures like trisomy screening are part of the regular battery of tests recommended during pregnancy, doctors may recommend genetic counselling or other relevant tests.
The Iyers decided to opt for genetic counselling before they started planning for the baby. Kumar explained: “I don’t want to take chances, especially knowing that my cousins’ children have been diagnosed with conditions that have a significant hereditary component.” Following advice from their genetic counsellor, they opted for the required tests. Their relief after learning that they are not carriers of any of the inherited conditions was palpable. Kumar especially cannot wait to become a Daddy.
“Older first-time parents are more aware of all the risks and are not willing to take chances with their babies’ health. Their life-time experiences have taught them to learn about the risks and make informed choices.” — Pooja Ramchandran, Genetic Counsellor, MapmyGenome
Plan Your Family with Confidence
MapmyGenome offers preconception genetic counselling, carrier screening, and NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) to help couples of all ages understand their genetic risks and make informed decisions for their family’s health.
