Main description:

This title, written by a multidisciplinary team of leading practitioners, reviews the current evidence underpinning clinical practice, and presents practical advice to guide healthcare professionals in caring for women at extremes of maternal age. Covering a wide range of relevant issues from fertility and contraception to common pregnancy risks and challenges, this guide discusses underlying psychological and social contexts, and suggested mechanisms. Clinical scenarios and practice points are included in each chapter to reinforce important concepts and enhance learning. Uniquely, each chapter examines issues from the perspectives of both younger and older pregnant women, highlighting similarities and differences in their needs and experiences.

Contents:

Introduction; Preconception issues and public health; Maternal age and pregnancy risks; Supporting younger and older women during pregnancy and birth; Effective postnatal care; Psychological and social issues; Maternal age and mortality.