Maternal care systems in Australia need to improve to cater to the rising age of mothers, experts warn.
The average maternal age has increased to 31.1 years, and the average age for first-time mothers has increased to 29.8 years, according to a study led by Flinders University.
It also found 26 per cent of mothers who gave birth are now over 35-years-old.
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This is in line with similar trends seen in the US and the UK, with all three countries experiencing declining birth rates.
Lead author of the study Dr Anya Arthurs said older mothers are more likely to suffer from health issues and complications.
“We’re seeing increased rates of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and caesarean sections among older mothers, which raises important questions about how maternity care systems are adapting,” she said.
“The average age of first-time mothers has steadily increased, with many now starting their families aged 35 years or over, reflecting broader societal changes including career priorities, financial pressures and improved access to contraception.”
This means Australia’s healthcare and maternal system needs to adapt quickly to ensure it is able to treat problems that emerge due to childbirth later in life, Arthurs said.
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The report criticised Australia’s model of incentivising caesarean births, saying it led to a rise in caesarean births being performed even if it wasn’t in the best medical interests of the mother.
It also found death rates for Indigenous mothers were above the national average.
Australia, the authors say, should adopt a “midwifery-led” care model, where midwives are more involved in important decision-making for mothers that leads to better care, rather than decisions being driven by incentives.
It also believes Australia should shift its focus to be based around woman-centred health outcomes that also cater to minority groups.
“We’re calling for governments and health systems to take action by focusing on maternity care that is equitable, culturally safe and responsive to changing needs,” Professor Claire Roberts from Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute said.
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