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Biology/Best age?

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Expert: - 4/6/2008


Question
Biologically, what is the best age to have children for a human?
Is it the same across all races? e.g. black, asian etc.?

Answer
Dear Maria,

Biologically speaking, there's not a single "best" age.  But it's generally safest for mother and child if the mother is at least about 18 years old, and younger than 30.  After age 35, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities being passed on by the mother increases, so it's wise to consider prenatal testing if you're pregnant after that age, if such things matter to you.

Hope that helps.

Dana

Biology

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Dana Krempels, Ph.D.

Expertise

I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!

Experience

At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980). I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.

Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.

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