If you are trying to get pregnant after the age of 35, then you must already be acquainted with the fact that it may be challenging. However, it has been seen that many people are delaying their pregnancy until their 30s and even more for several personal reasons.
Pregnancy after 35 – Risk Associated
It is necessary to understand that issues during pregnancy can emerge in women of any age. But when a woman is over 35, some complications can be more likely. Here is a list of pregnancy risks.
● Multiple pregnancies – With age, the chances of conceiving twins increase. It happens because of the hormonal changes in the woman’s body, due to which more than one egg is released during ovulation.
● Getting pregnant can take longer – You have a finite amount of eggs when you are born. The amount and quality of the eggs start to decline as you approach your mid- to-late-30s. Additionally, as you age, it becomes harder for your eggs to become fertilized than it was when you were younger.
● Pregnancy raises the risk of gestational diabetes. Only pregnant women can get this kind of diabetes.
● Pregnancy in the 30s can exacerbate the odds of elevation in blood pressure. According to research, high blood pressure during pregnancy seems to occur more frequently in older people.
● Chances of premature birth and giving birth to a baby with low weight increase with age. Complex medical issues are common in premature newborns.
● Pregnancy-related problems that could need a C-section are more likely to occur after age 35.
● Babies with specific genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, are likely to be born to older moms.
● In the late 30s; there is an elevated possibility of miscarriage and stillbirth. This could result from pre-existing illnesses or issues with the baby’s chromosomes.
Pregnancy after 35 – Do’s & Don’ts
Planning for pregnancy after the age of 35 or more can be overwhelming with all the risks associated. Here is a list of all the Do’s & Don’ts you must follow.
- Include exercise in your routine
It will help you maintain a healthy pregnancy weight while boosting your stamina and reducing stress. Just make sure you talk to your doctor about your fitness regimen. Through your pregnancy, you will likely be apt to carry on your regular exercise plan. But the doctor can help you determine whether you need to reduce or change your habit.
- Schedule a preconception consultation
Consult your doctor about your general health before becoming pregnant. Address any worries you may have regarding getting pregnant or having children. Inquire about your choices if you are having problems conceiving. - Say no to alcohol and smoking
You should refrain from drinking alcohol and using tobacco while pregnant. Alcohol increases your baby’s chances for both physical and mental abnormalities. Smoking raises the risk of having a baby with a low birth weight, which is more prevalent in older women. Preeclampsia can also be avoided by quitting smoking. - Gain healthy weight
Your baby is less likely to develop slowly if you gain the appropriate weight. The chance of premature birth is also decreased. Additionally, it reduces the likelihood that you’ll experience pregnancy-related issues, including gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. - Eat a well-balanced diet
Your chances of getting all the nutrients you require increase if you eat various meals. Pick a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, nutritious grains, legumes, lean meats, and low-fat dairy items. As your child develops, doing so will maintain the health of your teeth and bones.
Don’t forget to eat enough folic acid-rich foods, including leafy greens, dry beans, liver, and certain citrus fruits. - Do not forget the doctor’s appointment
Stay on top of your routine doctor appointments if you have chronic health problems. It will keep you and your unborn child healthy.
Consult a dentist also for routine checkups and cleanings. A healthy set of teeth and gums reduces the likelihood of risk of having a kid that is born prematurely and with low birth weight. - Seek prenatal care
The first eight weeks of your pregnancy are crucial for the development of your unborn baby. Your chances of having a risk-free pregnancy and a healthy baby can be increased with early and consistent prenatal care. Prenatal care involves
● tests
● routine checkups
● knowledge about pregnancy and delivery
● counselling
● support
Prenatal treatment offers additional safety to pregnant women above the age of 35. It enables your doctor to monitor health issues.
Conclusion
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you and your unborn child have the best pregnancy and delivery possible. Request a consultation with your doctor if you are 35 years of age or older and consider establishing a family to discuss any particular issues you may be experiencing and to develop a pregnancy plan that is suitable for you.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20045756
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/pregnancy-after-35/