Do women who have their last child in their 30s live longer? This question was asked recently by researchers at Boston University School of Medicine. Conducted in June 2014, the study concluded women aged 33 or older able to give birth lived longer than younger mothers, echoing previous results indicating women who gave birth after age 40 were more likely to live past age 100. For women, the study’s outcome signals a need to regularly visit a Dallas OB GYN to ensure optimal reproductive health.
Do Older Mothers Live Longer? – About the Study
Using data from the Long Life Family Study, researchers analyzed information collected from more than 500 families. By comparing a mother’s age at last child birth and age of death, scientists determined women who had their last child before age 30 were less likely to live past age 95 than their more mature counterparts. According to Dr. Thomas Perls, the study’s conclusions may mean women able to have children later in life possess a gene that slows aging; thus, these women live longer. Because women with certain gene variants can give birth well into their 30’s, Dr. Perls believes this increases, “her chances of passing those genes to the next generation.” Women born of older mothers are predicted to continue the trend by having children later in age, and living longer accordingly.
Implications for the Future
Although more research is needed, the findings are leading experts to new theories about the relationship between reproductive health and long life. The recent study, found in Menopause: The Journal of the North American Menopause Society, provides additional motivation for women to be proactive about their reproductive health. The staff at Advanced OB GYN Associates urges patients to have regular pelvic exams and check ups, which can detect the following:
- Presence of irregular cells
- Signs of localized tumors
- Risk factors for disease
In addition to pelvic exams, Dallas OB GYN physicians provide assistance with infertility, menopause symptoms, and pregnancy. Focused on helping women achieve and maintain optimal reproductive health, Advanced OB GYN Associates’ team recommends older mothers work with an OB GYN throughout pregnancy.
