Pregnancy after the age of 35 is more likely to causecertain complications such as preterm birth, birth defects, and multiple pregnancies. You’ve heard it to a lot of Obgyn that there is a higher risk when you get pregnant beyond 35. There are a lot of things you need to know and consider.
There are a lot of steps you need to take for you to have a healthy and safe delivery. Because when a woman gets pregnant at the age 35 and beyond she might want to have prenatal screening to check if your baby is at risk. These tests can tell you for sure if your baby has or doesn’t have a birth defect. These tests include chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis.
Here are the risks of pregnancy after age 35
It may take longer to get pregnant.
More likely to have a multiple pregnancy.
Susceptible to developed gestational diabetes and high blood pressure
Higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome.
Take your prenatal vitamins. All those who are in their childbearing years should take daily vitamins such as folic acid, iron and calcium. Taking folic acid especially in the first trimester would prevent birth defects in the brain and spinal cord. Taking folic acid adds an extra protection for mothers who are most likely to have babies with defects. Some women need more than 4000 mcg of folic acid.
This is still safe as long as you do not take more than 1000 mcg daily. You should take care of your body. The healthier you are, the better it will be for your little one. Always visit your doctor especially if you know you are at risk. If you have conditions such as gestational diabetes and hypertension, do not skip your doctor’s appointment.
Managing your condition early will keep you and your baby healthy. Eating a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, stopping smoking and drinking alcohol lower the risk for pregnancy problems.