The relationship between maternal age and SIDS

The relationship between maternal age and SIDS

There is evidence that advanced maternal age (i.e., being 35 years or older at the time of delivery) is a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), also known as crib death. 

SIDS is the sudden and unexpected death of an infant under one year of age, which cannot be explained after a thorough investigation.

Several studies have found that infants born to mothers who are 35 years or older at the time of delivery are at increased risk of SIDS compared to infants born to younger mothers. 

The risk of SIDS increases with increasing maternal age, with the highest risk observed in infants born to mothers who are 40 years or older.

It is not clear why advanced maternal age is associated with an increased risk of SIDS.

 Some researchers have suggested that advanced maternal age may be a marker for other risk factors for SIDS, such as smoking, poor nutrition, or preeclampsia. 

Other studies have suggested that advanced maternal age may be associated with changes in the uterus or placental function that increase the risk of SIDS.

It is important to note that while advanced maternal age is a risk factor for SIDS, the overall risk of SIDS is low, and most infants born to older mothers will not develop SIDS. 

However, pregnant women who are 35 years or older should discuss the potential risks and benefits of childbirth with their healthcare provider, and be aware of the measures they can take to reduce the risk of SIDS and other serious health problems for their infants.