Far from being a clinical rarity, pregnancies in women around 40 are a social reality tied to career development, financial stability, or new life phases. Yet the medical discourse tends to fixate on risk. Today we explore with Elena Tamame, a midwife and perinatal psychologist, whether it truly qualifies as a high-risk pregnancy, what changes occur in the body, and which care practices make a difference.
In obstetrics, advanced maternal age is discussed starting at 35, although it is around 40 when certain medical probabilities rise more clearly. There may be a greater incidence of hypertension, gestational diabetes, chromosomal alterations, induced labor, cesarean birth, or preterm birth. However, as Tamame emphasizes, the message should be nuanced.
“We’re talking about probabilities, not inevitable destinies,” she explains. And she adds: “Not every 40-year-old woman will have complications, but it is important to accompany the pregnancy with more preparation and monitoring.”
Un producto que te puede ayudar
Embarazo DONNAplus
A dietary supplement indicated for the preconception phase, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Its new formula delivers a high content of DHA (omega-3), iron, zinc, iodine, vitamins, minerals, and folic acid. DHA contributes to the fetal and infant brain and visual development, while folic acid helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects. It includes 10 vitamins and 5 minerals that support the nutritional needs of this stage and help reduce fatigue.
Almohada de embarazo Chilling Home
Designed to provide comprehensive support during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and lateral rest. Crafted with breathable knit cotton fabric and 100% cotton filling, it promotes breathability and comfort, especially in warmer periods. Its contoured design helps align the hips and back, fostering a more neutral joint position. Large in size (140 x 70 x 20 cm), it supports the entire body. Includes a removable, zippered cover for easy hygiene and durability.
Más conciencia
A tighter screening regimen usually recommended by the gynecologist, including more specific genetic tests, should not translate into constant fear but into clinical security. Facing the predominantly risk-focused narrative, Tamame introduces a less common nuance: age can also bring protective factors. For example, “at 40, pregnancy is not only risk; it is awareness and an advantage,” she says.
Many women facing motherhood at 40 show greater job and economic stability, a more deliberate decision-making process, more emotional self-awareness, and higher adherence to medical checks.
“Motherhood at 40 is usually less impulsive and more conscious. And that awareness is also health,” she asserts. She adds that “the ability to set boundaries, plan the pregnancy, and rigorously follow medical recommendations positively influences the gestational course.”
Qué cambia en el cuerpo
From a physiological standpoint, some age-related changes may appear:
- Slightly less flexible metabolism.
- Greater tendency toward insulin resistance.
- Muscle recovery somewhat slower.
- Progressive decline in collagen.
- Enhanced fatigue if there is a high workload.
“None of this means the body cannot carry a pregnancy,” clarifies Tamame. “It means we should optimize the terrain and provide better support,” she elaborates.
Antes de buscar embarazo: el verdadero punto clave
For the expert, the most decisive moment begins before conception. Preconception preparation becomes especially important from 40 onward. “This isn’t about medicalizing motherhood, but about arriving at pregnancy under the best possible conditions,” she explains.
Among the recommendations is personalized supplementation—always after professional assessment and prior testing—with folic acid or active folate (essential in the first weeks to prevent neural tube defects), vitamin D, and iodine according to diet, iron if reserves are low, and omega-3 (DHA), linked to fetal neurological development. “The key isn’t taking everything, but tailoring it to each woman,” she insists.
Algunos suplementos que van bien para esta etapa
Folato (en forma de Metafolin) 400 µg de Solgar
Recommended for women before and during pregnancy. Supports normal formation of blood cells. Helps reduce fatigue and tiredness.
Omega 3 de Excellence Fertility
Supports fetal brain and sensory development during pregnancy: this high-concentration omega-3 delivers 650 mg of DHA per capsule, an essential nutrient during pregnancy. DHA contributes to the proper development of the brain, retina, and inner ear of the fetus, supporting healthy neurological growth from the earliest stages of gestation.
Vitamina D3 2000 UI de AAVALABS
Provides 2000 UI per daily softgel, helping to maintain adequate levels year-round, especially when sun exposure is limited. Vitamin D, technically considered a hormone, supports the normal functioning of the immune system. It also contributes to the maintenance of bones and normal muscle function. The formula includes extra virgin olive oil to improve absorption.
Movimiento inteligente y regulación metabólica
Physical exercise remains a major ally at this stage. Strength training two to three times a week, daily walking, and working the deep core and pelvic floor help improve body composition, reduce metabolic risk, and protect mental health. “It isn’t a moment to stop training; it’s a moment to train smarter,” she summarizes. And what can you use to train?
Balón de embarazo Core Balance
The 65 cm pregnancy fitness ball is a Pilates ball designed for prenatal workouts and to relieve discomfort during pregnancy and labor. With a load capacity of up to 250 kg (available in other sizes depending on your height). Made from sturdy PVC that won’t burst, it deflates slowly in case of a puncture, offering greater safety. It contains no phthalates or other potentially harmful substances. It can be used for gentle mobility as well as for labor preparation.
Juego de pesas de mano ajustables 10 KG
Regarding nutrition, rather than simply talking about “eating healthy,” the expert recommends stabilizing energy: prioritizing protein at every meal, avoiding large sugar spikes, including healthy fats, maintaining good iron levels, and staying hydrated. “At 40 the body appreciates consistency,” she notes.
Estrés, descanso y autocuidado
Many women at this stage combine pregnancy with high work responsibilities, caring for aging parents, or previous children. Chronic stress can influence rest, inflammation, and overall well-being. Getting good sleep, delegating tasks, reducing self-imposed pressure, and creating pauses are part of prenatal care as much as any test.
Physically, the progressive decline in collagen makes it advisable to reinforce skin and connective tissue care: daily sun protection to prevent hyperpigmentation or melasma, constant hydration, guided pelvic floor work, and perineal massage in the third trimester.
Crema antiestrías Trofolastin
This stretch-mark cream is formulated with asiatic centella, collagen, and elastin to strengthen the skin’s structure and improve elasticity, helping to prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy and other bodily changes. It includes Triticum vulgare oil and regenerating actives that provide deep hydration and support firmness. It is especially suitable for periods of skin tension such as pregnancy, adolescence, or weight loss. Its pump dispenser enables hygienic, precise application.
Pregnancy after 40 is not a clinical anomaly, but an increasingly common reality in our country. Tailored follow-up is key, but so is the approach. “We don’t need more fear; we need more information and better preparation,” Tamame concludes.
