It’s become more common for a woman to have her first child after 35 years of age. While there are risks and possible complications, there are healthy happy babies born to women over the age of 35, even 40 and beyond. Women over the age of 35 should be aware of possible risks and take the proper precautions before and during pregnancy.
A woman’s age affects fertility in multiple ways.. As a woman reaches her mid 30’s there’s a decrease in the health of her eggs being ovulated. Ovulation issues can become a problem due to changes in hormones. Fewer eggs are released as a woman reaches her mid 30’s. Also, there may be issues involving her partner such as a decreased sperm count or the frequency of intercourse.
If you’re thinking about becoming pregnant in your mid to late 30’s, it may take longer then in your 20’s. Women over the age of 35 should call their doctor, if they’ve been trying to conceive for six consecutive months or longer. Trying to conceive means knowing when ovulation is expected to occur based on a woman’s cycle and having intercourse accordingly. As a woman ages ovulation issues may begin to occur resulting in having non-ovulation months, which is why “they” recommend trying for six months before consulting a doctor regarding conception.
When attending a doctor visit, it’s a good idea to bring along any charting a woman has done. As well as a journal of physical symptoms associated with her menstrual cycle. If there’s been a particularly upsetting event or extremely happy event in a woman’s life, those should also be noted. As the human body reacts to different moods which can at times affect fertility. Any other information that might be helpful should be brought along. Also, be sure to have an up-to-date family health history on file.
Pregnancy After 35: Possible Risks and Complications
Having a healthy pregnancy at any age is always the goal. With some pregnancy precautions, you can reduce your risk of pregnancy complications and increase your risk of a healthy baby. These are great tips for women in their 30″s and 40’s as well as anyone who is thinking about becoming pregnant or is pregnant.
The first thing a woman should do is get a preconception checkup. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about plans to become pregnant. At that appointment, you can have any questions or concerns taken care of. If the doctor has concerns about your plans or future pregnancy, they can let you know. It’s good to build this relationship so that your pregnancy is as smooth as possible.
Get blood tests and testing is done for things like rubella and chickenpox before you become pregnant. be sure that your immunity and vaccinations are up to date. If you need those updated, it might recommend you wait a month to become pregnant.
Prenatal care is extremely important when becoming pregnant. Prenatal care can begin when you start trying to become pregnant. Take a multivitamin with 400 micrograms of folic acid daily. Folic acid helps to prevent neural tube defects.
Weight is important when becoming pregnant and during pregnancy. You should try to be at a healthy weight. This is a good thing to talk with your doctor about during your preconception checkup.
Exercise during pregnancy unless your doctor has instructed you not to. Being active can help you have a healthy pregnancy and sometimes a little easier birth.
Alcohol, smoke and second hand smoke are bad. They are bad for people not trying to become pregnant. Before and during pregnancy it’s important to have good, healthy habits. Smoke and alcohol can lead to problems during pregnancy and have lasting affects on your baby.
Avoid using over the counter medicine unless your doctor has given approval. If you are taking any herbs or supplements, it’s a good idea to have those checked by your doctor and approved.
Eat a healthy diet. Eat foods rich in folic acid or foliate (a form of folic acid). Foods you should eat are leafy green vegetables, beans, enriched grain products, breakfast cereals.
Limit your caffeine consumption. If possible avoid caffeine during pregnancy.
Make sure all meat is properly cooked. Do not eat undercooked meat. Eating undercooked meat can lead to an infection known to cause birth defects.
Fish can be high in mercury. Pregnant women should not have over 12 ounces of fish a week. Again, this is something you should talk to your doctor about before consuming. Each woman and pregnancy is different.
Avoid changing the cat litter while pregnant.