Care of the Expectant Couple Over 35 Today an increasing number of women are choosing to have their first baby after age 35. In fact, the rate of first births to women between the ages of 30 and 39 more than doubled between 197o and 1986 in the United States. For women between the ages of 40 and 44, the birth rate in- creased by 50% during the same period (Berkowitz et al 1990; Department of Health and Human Services 1989) Many factors contribute to this trend, including the following: Availability of effective birth control methods The women's liberation movement and its emphasis on expanded roles for women The increased number ofwomen obtaining advanced education, pursuing careers, and delaying preg nancy until they are established professionally Increased incidence of later marriage and second marriage Higher cost of living, causing some young couples to delay childbearing until they are more secure financially ncrease in the ofwomen in this age group