Studies have shown that there are risks to getting pregnant for women who are aged 35 and above. Infertility, miscarriage, premature childbirth, diabetes, bleeding, hypertension, cesarean delivery, chromosomal anomalies and retardation in babies are some of the known pregnancy risks after age 35.
PARENTS shared some ways to reduce these pregnancy risks. These tips are helpful for those who are already beyond the recommended childbearing age range but are still planning on having a baby.
1. Prenatal vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are great sources of folic acid. This can help reduce the risk of birth defects such as spina bifida. This is a condition that involves defects in a baby's bones in the spine and the spinal cord itself, according to Mayo Clinic.
2. Regular OB check-up
"Your healthcare provider will be able to help you find the best prenatal vitamin," PARENTS advised. "She'll also be able to answer questions about your pregnancy diet, safe prenatal exercise, and any environmental factors you should avoid for the next nine months."
3. Management of current health conditions
Diabetes and hypertension are some of the health conditions that can complicate your pregnancy. Make sure to ask your doctor how to manage these conditions or if it is safe to get pregnant despite having certain health disorders.
4. Ideal body weight.
Make sure that you are not overweight. Exercise and proper diet are recommended. Being overweight and obese can be dangerous during pregnancy, labor and delivery especially for women who are 35 years old and above.
5. Healthy diet
Nutrition is very important before and during pregnancy. Eat lots of foods that are rich in folic acid such as beans, lentils and spinach.
There is nothing wrong if you still want to get pregnant even if you are past the recommended childbearing age. What is important is to know how to reduce pregnancy risks after age 35 and be consistent with the recommended guidelines.
