Are there special risks of a woman having a child when over the age of 45?

Yes: Baby: marked increased risk for chromosomal abnormalities. Miscarriage mother increased risk for pregnancy induced hypertension, gestational diabetes, stillbirth and cesarean delivery.

Normal age risks: A woman in good health can anticipate a normal pregnancy at age 45. There is an increase in diabetes and high blood pressure associated with age. A singleton pregnancy (rather than twins) is a good way to minimize these risks.

Yes: It actually increases a small amount with every year after peak fertility in the mid 20's. At 40 the risk of a trisomy 21 Down syndrome reaches 1% while at 45 it reaches 2%. This number is added to the random risk of 4% that any pregnancy has of an unexpected event (cleft palate, premi, other defect).It must also be added to any risk posed by the health of the woman at the time.