Delayed Parenthood Raises Fertility and Genetic Risks, Says Dr Shrinidhi Nathany
New Delhi [India], March 18: Across urban India, the age at marriage and first childbirth is steadily rising. Education, financial independence, career aspirations and changing social expectations have reshaped when families begin. While this social shift reflects progress, biology has not evolved at the same pace.Data from the National Family Health Survey show that the median age at marriage for women in India has increased from about 19 years in the early 2000s to roughly 22 years today. In large cities the numbers are higher, with many women marrying between 26 and 30. The age of first childbirth is also rising, now averaging around 24 years nationally and significantly higher in metropolitan areas. Globally the shift is even more pronounced. In many developed countries the avera...