US Adults Reject ‘Burnout’ Label: New Survey
The language used to describe pregnancy is undergoing a quiet but significant shift. A recent survey indicates that a growing number of Americans discover the term “geriatric” to describe pregnant women over the age of 35 to be unacceptable. Even as the term has been used for decades within the medical community, its use is now facing increased scrutiny and a push for more respectful terminology.
The origins of the term, first coined by a 20th-century obstetrician, are rooted in a time when pregnancies over 35 carried significantly higher risks. While risks do increase with maternal age, the term itself is widely considered outdated and demeaning by many, and the survey results suggest that sentiment is becoming mainstream. The survey, reported by Medscape Medical News, doesn’t detail the survey methodology or sample size, but the finding reflects a broader cultural move toward person-first language in healthcare.
Why the Term is Problematic
The core issue with “geriatric” is its association with frailty, decline, and end-of-life care. Applying this label to pregnant women, even if intended to signal increased medical monitoring, can be deeply alienating and contribute to feelings of anxiety and diminished self-worth. It’s a term that focuses on age as a deficit, rather than acknowledging the many healthy and successful pregnancies that occur in women over 35. The term also fails to account for the significant advances in prenatal care and reproductive technology that have improved outcomes for older mothers.
Understanding the Increased Risks with Advanced Maternal Age
It’s important to acknowledge that pregnancy does present different considerations for women over 35, often referred to as advanced maternal age (AMA). These aren’t inherent failings, but statistical probabilities. The risks aren’t dramatically higher for every woman, but the overall likelihood of certain complications increases. These include:
- Gestational Diabetes: A form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
- High Blood Pressure: Including preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
- Chromosomal Abnormalities: The risk of conditions like Down syndrome increases with maternal age.
- Miscarriage and Stillbirth: The risk of both increases with age.
- Preterm Labor and Delivery: Delivering before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
However, it’s crucial to understand that these are risks, not certainties. Many women over 35 experience healthy, uncomplicated pregnancies and deliver healthy babies. Proactive prenatal care, including genetic screening and careful monitoring, can support mitigate these risks.
What Does This Mean for Healthcare Providers?
The growing discomfort with the term “geriatric” places healthcare providers in a position of needing to adapt their language. While the term may still appear in some medical charts for internal communication, its use in direct communication with patients should be avoided. Instead, providers can use more neutral and respectful language, such as “advanced maternal age,” “pregnancy over 35,” or simply focusing on the specific medical considerations relevant to the individual patient.
This shift in language also reflects a broader trend in healthcare toward patient-centered care, which emphasizes the importance of respecting patients’ values and preferences. Using language that is sensitive and empowering can foster a stronger doctor-patient relationship and improve overall health outcomes.
The Broader Context of Healthcare Costs and Access
The conversation around maternal health and language also occurs against a backdrop of rising healthcare costs and increasing financial strain on American families. A recent report from The New York Times highlights that roughly one-third of American adults are now making sacrifices – including reducing food intake or limiting transportation – to afford medical care. This economic pressure can disproportionately affect pregnant women, particularly those with limited resources, potentially impacting their access to necessary prenatal care and support services.
Access to quality prenatal care is a critical factor in mitigating the risks associated with advanced maternal age. Regular check-ups, genetic screening, and appropriate management of any underlying health conditions can significantly improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
How Americans are Experiencing Primary Care
Understanding how people generally approach healthcare can also provide context. A 2024 survey by U.S. News & World Report examined patient experiences with primary care, including doctor selection and frequency of visits. While the survey doesn’t specifically address pregnancy, it highlights the importance of establishing a strong relationship with a trusted healthcare provider – a relationship built on clear communication and mutual respect.
What Comes Next: A Continuing Evolution
The move away from the term “geriatric” is likely to continue as awareness grows and healthcare providers embrace more patient-centered language. Professional medical organizations may issue updated guidance on terminology, and medical education programs may incorporate training on respectful communication. Further research into patient preferences and the impact of language on health outcomes could also inform best practices. The focus will remain on providing comprehensive and compassionate care to all pregnant women, regardless of age, using language that is both accurate and respectful.