Genetic counseling for women with advanced maternal age is well established medical standard of care. However, only one study has yet been done to test the validity of that policy. Records of 283 patients referred for genetic counseling with advanced maternal age as a primary indication were examined. Of these, 57.6% had at least one additional indication. This value did differ significantly from Rubin's data which reported a 43.3% rate (X2 = 13.01, p > 0.001). The additional indications were broken down according to McKusick's system, and a statistical difference between my and Rubin's data was found in the autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, potential teratogenic exposure and miscellaneous categories. There was no significant statistical difference between my and Rubin's data in the X-linked, chromosomal anomalies and multifactorial groups. These data underscore the need for physicians to refer patients with advanced maternal age for genetic counseling, and provides a scientific basis for doing so.

Thesis (M.Phil.)--University of Hong Kong, 2008.

This study explores the experience of a select group of women pregnant for the first time after age 35. A grounded theory approach was used to collect, code, compare, and contrast data arising from a series of indepth interviews. The resultant theoretical construct showed that these women conceived of pregnancy as a four phase project. Each phase revolved around a major concept and had a related goal. The women moved from the early planning and controlling phases through transition to a phase of uncertainty about how they would incorporate motherhood into their lives. Implications for nursing relate to the women's sophisticated learning needs, their ability to plan and control their experiences, their lack of synchronization with societal norms, their self confidence, and their continuing careers. / Applied Science, Faculty of / Nursing, School of / Graduate

published_or_final_version / Obstetrics and Gynaecology / Master / Master of Philosophy