Orlando Health researchers have identified widespread public misconceptions about obstetrics care based on results of a recent survey.1
These misconceptions include 54% of US individuals believing women cannot safely give birth in their 40s, and only 41% being aware of the comprehensive technology and testing available to reduce risks after the age of 35 years. These precautions have been implemented to ensure both maternal and infant safety.
Key takeaways:
- More than half of Americans hold misconceptions about pregnancy after age 35, with 54% believing women cannot safely give birth in their 40s.
- Only 41% of respondents were aware of available testing and technology designed to reduce pregnancy risks for older mothers.
- Experts emphasize that pregnancies at advanced maternal age can be routine and healthy, especially with proper monitoring and prenatal care.
- Preconception counseling and screenings are recommended to optimize outcomes, including assessments for diabetes, medication adjustments, and advanced ultrasounds.
- Fertility anxiety is rising among Gen Z women, with 72% expressing concern about age-related fertility decline and many feeling pressured to have children before age 30.
"Pregnant women over the age of 35 are no different than other younger patients," said Natasha Spencer, MD, obstetrician and gynecologist at Orlando Health. "In my clinic, one-third of my maternity patients are of advanced maternal age and they have routine, uncomplicated pregnancies."
Importance of preconception counseling
The KnowledgePanel was used to survey between September 5 and September 7, 2025. Participants included 1024 US adults aged at least 18 years. It was based on a nationally representative probability sample with a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 3.1% at the 95% confidence level.
Spencer recommended that preconception counseling be provided to older patients to ensure the best health outcomes. This should include adjusting medications and screening for diabetes and other pregnancy risks. Anatomy scans, ultrasounds, and chromosomal testing may also be utilized to improve infant health.
Orlando Health doctors have utilized advanced testing and technology to ensure safer pregnancy, eliminating misconceptions and supporting older mothers treated at their location. According to Spencer, women can feel confident about having children later in life with the help of specialists, treatments, and management strategies.
Patient perspective
An example of the common patient experience was highlighted by one of the survey respondents, Melissa Holmes, who was pregnant when aged 42 years and concerned about how her current health challenges, such as uterine fibroids would impact the pregnancy. These concerns were exasperated by a miscarriage she had experienced in her early 30s.
According to Holmes, prenatal counseling helped to alleviate her fears. Alongside testing for abnormalities, she began to receive supplements such as iron and prenatal vitamins. These measures, alongside referral to a high-risk doctor, allowed for a safe and successful birth.
With these results in mind, Spencer recommended that women seek guidance before pregnancy. These patients should also utilize the latest support available to optimize their health and achieve a safe, healthy pregnancy.
“As obstetricians, we’ll be your biggest supporters,” said Spencer. "We are here to provide comprehensive care, ensure your success, and stand by you every step of the way."
Fertility anxiety among Gen Z women
This data is supported by a study highlighting a growing trend of fertility anxiety among Gen Z patients, which was highlighted by Natalia Llarena, MD, FACOG, reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist and ob-gyn with HRC Fertility, in an interview with Contemporary OB/GYN.2
Age-related fertility concerns were reported in 72% of Gen Z women, with nearly half feeling pressured to have children by the age of 30 years. These feelings also may occur in Gen Z women aged as young as 23 years, which Llarena noted may lead to rushed decisions about relationships or career paths.
To combat these concerns, Llarena recommended healthy lifestyle choices to support fertility, such as avoiding smoking, eating well, and getting adequate sleep. Egg or embryo freezing was also suggested as an option to preserve future fertility.
“We have been very active in promoting information about egg freezing to younger patients,” said Llarena.
