What Is Advanced Maternal Age? Usha Vance's Big Baby News Doesn't Come Without Health Risks

Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha have announced the happy news that they are expecting a new baby. "We're very excited to share the news that Usha is pregnant with our fourth child, a boy," their joint statement to social media read. "Usha and the baby are doing well, and we are all looking forward to welcoming him in late July" (via CNN).

Newsweek's coverage of the news additionally revealed that the second lady is currently 40 years old. The outlet added that this makes her part of "the fastest-growing group of mothers in the U.S.": women over 40. According to Dr. Noa Sterling, an OB-GYN interviewed by Newsweek, pregnancy after age 35 is considered to be "advanced maternal age." But what does this mean when it comes to safely carrying a baby to term and giving birth?

The Cleveland Clinic explains that for a mother over the age of 35, her risk for pregnancy complications rises. These may include higher rates of miscarriage and a greater risk for genetic disorders. Older mothers may also be at greater risk of high blood pressure, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, multiple pregnancy, preterm birth, low birth weight, having a large baby, and needing a C-section. They further note the importance of going to all your prenatal appointments and tests. However, they emphasize that being over 35 does not mean you won't have a healthy pregnancy. It simply means that your risk may be higher than when you were younger.

Sterling told Newsweek that, despite the added risk, it's important to also consider the benefits of becoming a mother at an older age. "For many people, delaying childbearing [allows time] so that they can get an education, advance in their career or find a partner," she said. Some studies have also linked giving birth after age 40 with a greater likelihood of living to be 100.