[The course of labor in very young and older pregnant patients].

The course of pregnancy and delivery and the fetal outcome were analyzed in 23 women aged less than 16 years and 151 women aged 42 years or more. Most of the adolescent mothers were delivered spontaneously without any major problems. In patients aged 42 years and more there was a higher rate of pregnancy complications due to predisposing risks and a high incidence of prolonged labour, correlated to an increased frequency of operative deliveries and in general more active obstetrical management. Fetal outcome was good in both groups. The results demonstrate the necessity of intensive prenatal care in both groups. Whereas in young gravidae spontaneous delivery can be expected in most cases, the women with advanced maternal age do need an active obstetrical management including all the abilities of modern perinatal medicine. Intensive antenatal and perinatal care provided, the prognosis for mother and child can be estimated as good in both groups.