Becoming pregnant after the age of 35 can be challenging for many women. With advanced maternal age comes several risks and health concerns that may affect the mother and the baby.
What are the Risks of Pregnancy Over 35?
As a woman ages, her fertility begins to decline, and the chances of getting pregnant naturally decrease. Moreover, pregnancies over the age of 35 are more likely to face certain risks, including:.
1. Increased Risk of Miscarriage
Pregnancies over 35 tend to be at a higher risk of miscarriage during the first trimester. This is because older eggs have a higher likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities, which can lead to miscarriage.
2. Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs in pregnant women, and it is more common in women over 35. Diabetes can affect the baby’s health and increase the risk of C-section delivery.
3. Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a complication that arises during pregnancy, characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs.
Women over 35 are at a greater risk of developing preeclampsia, which can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, and other complications.
4. Premature Birth
Women over the age of 35 have an increased risk of premature birth, leading to low birth weight and other complications. Premature babies may require additional care and longer hospital stays.
5. Genetic Abnormalities
Babies born to women over 35 are more likely to have chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome, which can lead to lifelong disabilities and other health issues.
6. Stillbirth
The risk of stillbirth, or the loss of a baby before delivery, is higher in women over 35. This may be due to the higher incidence of complications during pregnancy, such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes, that can lead to stillbirth.
7. Low Birth Weight
Babies born to women over 35 are more likely to be born with low birth weight, leaving them at an increased risk of developing health problems later on in life.
8. Multiple Births
Women over 35 are more likely to conceive multiples, which can lead to complications during pregnancy and delivery, including preterm birth and low birth weight.
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9. Difficulty Conceiving
As women age, their fertility decreases. Women over 35 may find it more challenging to get pregnant, and they are more likely to need fertility treatments to conceive.
10. C-Section Delivery
Women over 35 are more likely to have a C-section delivery due to complications during pregnancy, such as fetal distress, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and other health issues.
Health Concerns During Pregnancy for Women Over 35
It is essential for women over 35 to take extra care of their health during pregnancy. They may require additional testing and prenatal care to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.
1. Prenatal Care
Women over 35 should receive regular prenatal care to monitor their health and the fetal development closely. Prenatal care includes routine checkups, ultrasounds, blood tests, and other diagnostic tests.
2. Healthy Eating Habits
Following a healthy and well-balanced diet is crucial during pregnancy. Women over 35 need to consume a diet rich in protein, iron, calcium, and other essential nutrients to support the development of the baby and maintain their health.
3. Regular Exercise
Moderate exercise can help promote healthy pregnancy and fetal development. However, women over 35 should avoid strenuous exercises and consult their healthcare provider before commencing any exercise regimen.
4. Avoid Exposure to Toxins
Exposure to toxins, such as lead and radiation, can harm the developing fetus. Pregnant women over 35 should avoid exposure to toxins and discuss any potential risk factors with their healthcare providers.
5. Manage Stress
Pregnancy can be a stressful time, and women over 35 may experience additional stress due to the increased risk of complications. It is essential to manage stress through techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques.
Conclusion
Pregnancy over 35 can pose several significant risks and health concerns for both the mother and the baby.
Women over 35 need to take extra care of their health during pregnancy, receive regular prenatal care, and follow a healthy lifestyle to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
