Parenting is already considered a complex task, but in this digital age, it can be like entering a foreign land. Tech-savvy teens live in a world dominated by social media trends, constant online validation, and video games, leaving parents to struggle with how best to approach conversations about mental health and technology use. Most parents discover that communication can go woefully wrong because the subtleties of technology influence and digital pressure have resulted in an emotional gap. A parently must develop a significant necessity for learning how to engage in open, meaningful mental health conversations with their techno-savvy teenager: patience, understanding, and not an unwillingness to learn.

Discussions about technology and mental health are conversations that cannot be held but need to be 'kept open.'. The American Academy of Pediatrics Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health is now offering insight into how parents can open these lines of communication, which is beginning to make parents realize that having real conversations instead of lecturing can pave the way for better understanding. In this digital age, learning to connect with your teen in their world has never been more essential.

Link Between Media and Mental Health

Social media and technology have brought a total change in the lives of youngsters. How they communicate, share, and even think has altered dramatically. And all this in their life leads to consequences against mental health. As mentioned by psychologist Dr. Neerja Aggarwal, "It does take quite a mental toll.". "Social media trends define many of our decisions—and by extension, our lives. The latest addition to the Oxford Dictionary, 'brain rot,' describes the fatigue from endlessly scrolling through social media content or Instagram reels," she shares.

This constant exposure has a proven impact. Research has shown that teens who spend over three hours on social media daily face double the risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Also, the instant dopamine rush created by social media on account of likes, comments, and shares may give them a dependency cycle, thereby affecting their ability to focus on face-to-face relationships. Such cycles can leave teens fighting against self-esteem, social comparison, and emotional regulation.

According to Dr. Aggarwal, parents need to be aware of these factors and find ways to engage with their teens in meaningful, non-judgmental conversations. Establishing a safe space to discuss mental health issues could mitigate these risks and further strengthen relationships. Conversations must be based on curiosity, mutual understanding, and creating boundaries rather than criticism or blame.

Initiating Conversations with Curiosity and Empathy

Another excellent tactic for engaging teens about their mental health issues while relating with the techno-savvy teenager is being curious rather than judgmental. Many parents desire to lecture about the overuse of screens and social media; however, this tends to shut down the conversation instead of opening it up. According to Dr. Aggarwal, "Be inquisitive. Ask an interesting, open-ended question so the teenager is more willing to share her experiences.". For example, asking, "What’s a cool meme you’ve seen recently?" or, "Does social media ever feel exhausting?" can help bridge the emotional gap.

The key to opening a door to better understanding can be listening without judgment. Teens face the tremendous pressure of trying to maintain a "perfect" online presence and deal with the FOMO of missing out on all the excitement around them as they view peers apparently living exciting lives online. Letting teens know it's okay to take breaks from these pressures and to prioritize their mental health is important, as Dr. Aggarwal believes.

Setting Healthy Boundaries with Technology

One of the effective ways to help teenagers' mental health can be the setting of the boundaries for the usage of technology. Dr. Hrishikesh Belsare, consulting pediatrician, points out that monitoring screen time is critical to emotional well-being. "Increased screen use may pose emotional and psychological dangers, including anxiety, depression, and attention deficit disorder. Children who are constantly glued to screens tend to be shy, receive lesser social interaction, and have aggression tendencies," she said.

Dr. Belsare emphasizes purposeful screen time that technology should not just be something used for distraction but a way to learn and grow. For example, embedding educational content or learning apps and interactive e-books would change the seemingly passive screen habit to something meaningful for learning. In doing so, kids and teenagers are associated with creativity and curiosity instead of merely mindless scrolling and seeking constant validation of likes and shares.

Parents can also include mindful practices in their daily lives, like having a family reading time, having a no-phones-at-the-dinner-table policy, or making the weekends technology-free. These practices help improve communication and create moments for connection and teens and their families to disengage from social media's constant pull.

How to Use Technology as an Ally?

While many parents fear technology, it could be a mental health ally if used thoughtfully. Digital tools such as mindfulness apps, mental health podcasts, or guided meditation sessions can empower teenagers to regulate their emotions and counteract anxiety. Introducing these tools can show that technology does not only fuel mental health risks but can also help with mental clarity, relaxation, and emotional balance.

Other family-wide initiatives like digital detoxes also make room for mental health improvements. Disconnection can be an effective lesson in moderation, as teens may relearn to enjoy the good old non-digital ways of life. Collective commitment and thoughtful engagement make it possible for parents to utilize technology as a resource instead of a barrier.

How to Create Safe Space to Talk

Dr. Aggarwal emphasizes that creating open communication is not about saving teenagers from their issues but making them feel heard and understood in a judgment-free environment. Discussions about mental health should be continuous, not a one-time intervention. Showing empathy and willingness to listen can help strengthen bonds and resolve mental health issues before they become problematic.

Dr. Belsare further adds that clear expectations about screen time without making technology the enemy are very important. Positive, nurturing boundaries can teach teens how to engage with social media and technology healthily. Conversations should never feel like punishments but opportunities for mutual learning and shared growth.

Bridging the Digital-Emotional Divide

Tech-savvy teens are surrounded by a digital world, but their mental health must remain the priority of their parents and caregivers. The challenges are real: excessive screen time, social media pressures, and the dopamine rush of likes and shares can have long-lasting effects on emotional well-being. But Dr. Aggarwal and Dr. Belsare agree: parents can make a difference by choosing understanding, empathy, and connection over judgment and criticism.

The digital age is here to stay, and so are its challenges. But with curiosity, patience, and mindful parenting strategies, parents can steer their teens toward healthy social media use and emotional resilience. It's not just about technology; it's about bonding, trust, and the proper positioning of tech-savvy teens to thrive both online and offline.

Dr. Neerja Aggarwal is a practising psychologist and co-founder of Emoneeds- a mental health platform.

Dr. Hrishikesh Belsare is a consulting Pediatrician at MEDNET Labs.

Vanessa Hudgens at the age of 36 is a mother again. She welcomed her second baby with husband Cole Tucker. The news was announced on Instagram on Saturday, where she shared a photo of herself lying in a hospital bed, holding Tucker's hand.

She wrote: "Well…. I did it. Had another baby!! What a wild ride labor is. Big shout out to all the moms. It’s truly incredible what our bodies can do ❤️."

This month itself, Catherine Paiz revealed that she was pregnant with her fourth baby at the age of 35.

These news of celebrity pregnancy after 30 spark the spotlight on late motherhood and how safe it really is?

What Does The Data Tell Us On The Trend Of Late Motherhood?

The average age of mothers in the US have continued to rise, a new report released on June 13 by the National Vital Statistic System (NVSS), provides the shift in age trends between 2016 and 2023. The study, conducted by Andrea D. Brown, Ph.D., M.P.H., and her colleagues at the National Center for Health Statistics.

The researchers found a clear increase in the mean age of mothers at the time of their first birth. In 2016, the average age of a first-time mother was 26.6 years. By 2023, this had risen to 27.5 years — nearly a full year’s difference in just seven years.

But the trend isn’t limited to first-time mothers. In Paiz's case, she is having her fourth child at 35.

Is Late Pregnancy Healthy?

The National Institute of Health (NIH), US (2022), 20% of women in the US are now having their first child after the age of 35. While it is the new trend, the NIH doctor Dr Alan Decherney, a fertility expert explains that "As women age, they are still fertile, but their odds of pregnancy are decreased because they are not making as many good eggs that will fertile and divide normally and turn out to be an embryo."

After age 30, a woman's fertility decreases ever year, notes the NIH July 2022 issue. It notes: "The number and quality of her eggs goes down until she reaches menopause."

However, experts do point out that getting pregnant in your 30s need not be a stressful affair at all times. As it is at this age when you experience more stability, and also someone you know who have a personal experience in handling one. Most important, you are more mature at this age, which you may not be in your 20s.

What Must You Keep In Mind If You Plan Pregnancy After 30?

Quit Habits: If you are a smoker, or consume alcohol, this is a good time to leave it.

Reduce Stress: While pregnancy for some can bring stress, try to find activities that help you release it.

Healthy Weight: Ensure that your weight is right, reduce your waist to bring it to a healthy range for a healthy pregnancy.

Food Habits: Stop eating junk and start eating more whole grains.

Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle can impact negatively on the child. You do not have to do HIIT, however, regular easy workouts can make both the pregnancy and delivery easy.

Dr Michelle Y Owens, professor of obstetrics and gynecology and a practicing maternal-fetal medicine specialist at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, writes for the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) that "the longer your eggs have been around, the more likely they are to produce a pregnancy with a chromosome problem that can lead to a condition like Down syndrome. The risk goes up significantly after 35." However, she says, there is a good news. Now, we have tools to detect and respond to pregnancy complications early.

For many women, fertility can feel like a ticking clock, whether you’re planning to start a family soon or considering delaying pregnancy. One of the most useful tools for understanding your fertility potential is the AMH test, which measures the Anti-Müllerian Hormone in your blood.

But one question that often comes up is: “How often should I get my AMH levels checked?”

In this blog, we’ll break it down, explore what AMH tells you about your fertility, and provide practical guidance for testing frequency.

What Is AMH and Why Does It Matter?

AMH is a hormone produced by small follicles in the ovaries. Its levels reflect your ovarian reserve, essentially the number of eggs remaining in your ovaries. While it doesn’t measure egg quality, AMH is a reliable indicator of egg quantity, making it a critical part of fertility assessments.

Key points about AMH:

• Stable throughout the cycle: Unlike hormones like FSH, AMH can be measured on any day of the menstrual cycle.

• Predictive of ovarian reserve: Higher levels indicate more eggs; lower levels suggest fewer eggs.

• Useful for planning: AMH helps women understand fertility potential, guide IVF treatment, or decide whether to freeze eggs.

However, it’s important to remember that AMH is just one piece of the puzzle. Egg quality, age, lifestyle, and overall reproductive health also play crucial roles in fertility.

Factors That Affect AMH Levels

AMH levels vary from woman to woman and can be influenced by several factors:

Typical AMH Levels by Age

Here’s a general guide to what AMH levels mean at different ages:

How Often Should You Check Your AMH?

There is no universal answer, as testing frequency depends on your age, fertility goals, and medical history. Here’s a practical guide:

Women Planning Pregnancy Soon

Under 35 and healthy: A single AMH test may be sufficient to establish a baseline.

Considering IVF or egg freezing: Your doctor may recommend repeating the test every 6–12 months to track ovarian response.

Women Over 35 or With Fertility Concerns

AMH declines more rapidly after 35, so annual testing is often advised.

Women with known fertility risks (e.g., endometriosis, previous ovarian surgery) may need testing every 6–12 months.

Women With PCOS

AMH is often elevated, which can mask fertility issues.

Testing may be less frequent unless undergoing fertility treatment.

Women Undergoing Fertility Treatments

AMH testing may be repeated every cycle to tailor medication dosage and predict egg retrieval numbers.

AMH and Fertility Planning

AMH levels can guide several important decisions:

Practical Tips for AMH Testing

• Consistency: Always use the same lab for follow-up tests when possible.

• Complementary tests: Combine AMH with antral follicle count (AFC) via ultrasound for a complete picture.

• Lifestyle matters: Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking or excessive alcohol to support fertility.

• Consult a specialist: AMH results should always be interpreted by a fertility expert who can guide next steps.

By discussing your results with a fertility specialist at advanced centers like Birla Fertility & IVF, you can make informed, personalized decisions about family planning, IVF, or egg freezing.

Limitations of AMH Testing

While AMH is valuable, it has its limits:

• Doesn’t measure egg quality: Older women may have a lower chance of conception even with normal AMH.

• Can fluctuate slightly: Lab differences and health conditions can cause variations.

• Not a guarantee of conception: AMH indicates quantity, but pregnancy depends on many factors.

Conclusion

AMH testing is a powerful tool for understanding ovarian reserve and guiding fertility decisions, but it’s not a standalone predictor of fertility. For most women, testing every 6–12 months is sufficient, with more frequent testing only in specific circumstances.

By knowing your AMH levels and consulting with a fertility specialist at centers like Birla Fertility & IVF, you can make proactive, informed choices about your reproductive health. Fertility may not wait for life to line up perfectly, but with the right guidance and planning, you can take steps toward your family goals with confidence.

Remember, AMH testing is a guide, not a verdict. It’s one step in understanding your fertility journey and making empowered decisions about your future.

In a study led by researchers at Mass General Brigham, pregnant individuals who stopped taking popular GLP-1 weight loss medications either before or early in their pregnancy were found to gain more weight and face higher risks of diabetes and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.

They were also more likely to deliver preterm compared with people who had never taken GLP-1 drugs. The study, published in JAMA, shows that women who had used these drugs may face increased risks of preterm birth, diabetes, and pregnancy-related high blood pressure conditions such as preeclampsia compared with those who had not taken them.

Is It Safe To Consume GLP-1 Drugs In Pregnancy?

GLP-1 medications include brands like Ozempic, Zepbound, Victoza, Trulicity, and Wegovy. They were originally developed to manage diabetes and control blood sugar but have become widely used for weight management and obesity treatment. These medicines may also help with conditions such as sleep apnea, improve heart and kidney health, and lower the risk of strokes.

Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy belong to a class called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which promote weight loss by mimicking a hormone that reduces appetite.

Many people regain weight after stopping these drugs, but pregnant women are generally advised against taking them. This has raised questions about how to safely help women wean off these medications around conception without increasing other health risks linked to obesity or diabetes.

Weight Loss Drugs Before Pregnancy Linked To Greater Weight Gain

The research team, led by Dr. Jacqueline Maya, looked at health records for nearly 1,800 pregnancies between 2016 and 2025, mostly among women with obesity. They found that women who stopped GLP-1 medications before or early in pregnancy gained an average of 7.2 pounds (3.27 kilograms) more than those who had never taken these drugs.

“The popularity of weight loss drugs has grown dramatically, but guidelines recommend stopping them before pregnancy because there isn’t enough safety data for unborn babies,” said Dr. Maya, a pediatric endocrinologist at Mass General Brigham for Children, as reported by Science Direct.

Women in the GLP-1 group also had a 32% higher risk of exceeding recommended pregnancy weight gain, a 30% higher risk of developing diabetes, a 29% higher risk of hypertensive disorders, and a 34% higher chance of preterm birth. Interestingly, there were no differences in C-section rates or babies’ birth weight and length.

Dr. Camille Powe, an endocrinologist and co-author of the study, noted that more research is needed to understand the benefits and risks of using GLP-1 drugs around pregnancy. “We need further studies to find ways to manage weight gain safely and reduce pregnancy risks when stopping GLP-1 medications,” Powe said, according to Science Direct.

Can You Take Ozempic Or Wegovy During Pregnancy?

Currently, there’s no safe role for GLP-1 use during pregnancy. No GLP-1 drugs are approved for expectant mothers.

Dr. Michael Snyder, MD, medical director of the Bariatric Surgery Center at Rose Medical Center and FuturHealth’s in-house obesity specialist, explains that human data on GLP-1s during pregnancy is very limited. Animal studies indicate potential risks including fetal growth restriction, pregnancy loss, and skeletal abnormalities at higher doses.

When someone takes a GLP-1 drug, their appetite changes, and it’s not yet clear how this could affect a pregnant person’s nutrition.