Getting pregnant is an exciting time for many. Whether a surprise, or you have been trying for a while, it generally is a time of joy. As with any pregnancy, there are always risk factors to consider; no soft cheeses, sushi, caffeine… you know the drill. But did you know that there are more risk factors when becoming pregnant after the age of 35? It’s called “Geriatric Pregnancy”. What we will discuss in this article are those specific factors and how you can help yourself to have the healthiest pregnancy possible.
Let us break down some of the risks associated with a geriatric pregnancy:
- High blood pressure (that could lead to preeclampsia) – Potential liver and kidney damage as well as edema (swelling)
- Gestational diabetes – High blood sugar levels in you can result in babies growing too large in the womb, leading to birth injuries or a c-section
- Premature birth – small in size, respiratory distress, feeding difficulties
- Chromosome disorders with the baby – Down syndrome, Trisomy 21/18/13, Klinefelter’s syndrome
- Miscarriage – chromosomal problems increase with the age of eggs, changing the quality and viability of said eggs. That is one factor in why miscarriages with a maternal age of 35 or greater is higher
- Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets)– women over 35 produce more follicle stimulating hormone which may cause more than one egg to drop at ovulation
If you are over the age of 35 and pregnant, your doctor may schedule you more often, especially to monitor your blood pressure. Preeclampsia is not something to ignore. If you are feeling dizzy, nauseous (more so than morning sickness), severe headaches, or intense belly pain, please seek medical attention.
Have no fear, there ARE some pluses to having a baby after the age of 35:
- Better educated and financially able – Being older could mean you are more financially stable and have more resources available to you
- It can make you smarter – yes, that’s right! A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that women who had their last baby after the age of 35 had sharper cognition and verbal memory
- You may live longer – studies have shown that women having a child over the age of 33 were twice as likely to live to age 95 compared to those that had theirs before the age of 30
- Socioeconomic factors will constantly change and grow – technology and knowledge will always adapt and expand with time. Not only will you be treated with the most up to date medical and technological advancements, but your child will also grow up learning more about those advancements than we could ever imagine
You have seen the risks; you’ve seen the upsides. Now you may be wondering what you can do to increase your chance of a healthy pregnancy.
- If you are planning to get pregnant, see your doctor beforehand – get the checkups, the bloodwork, etc. Make sure you are physically and emotionally ready
- Prenatal care – regular screenings, exams. Counseling and education. These can all assist in a healthier pregnancy
- Vitamins – Your doctor will advise you (unless medically unable) to take prenatal vitamins, folic acid, and omega 3 *please check with your doctor first before taking these*
- Well balanced diet – It should go without saying, we can’t live off Taco Bell, but it’s ok to give in to those pregnancy cravings once in a while. A lot of fruits and veggies, lean meats, and calcium-rich foods are excellent.
- Exercise – If you are already a runner, it should not be a problem to continue, but if you aren’t do not take it up as a hobby just yet. Exercising regularly will help you maintain a healthy pregnancy weight as well as ease your stress and keep your strength up!
- Refrain from smoking or drinking – Smoking increases the chance of low birth weight and preeclampsia. Alcohol puts your baby at risk of mental and physical defects
While there are many guidelines, the best laid plan for a healthy pregnancy, at any age, is to speak with your health care professional. Your care is of the utmost importance. If you are uncomfortable with any advice given by your doctor, you are allowed to seek another doctor’s opinion. Hearing a second opinion may help put your mind at ease from whatever restlessness it had. No question is wrong to ask. You should never feel silly asking what you might think is the simplest question. Your doctor is part of your support team, and won’t make you feel bad. Don’t forget, “pregnancy brain” is a very real thing, and anyone that has ever been pregnant will tell you the same. So if you do have to ask the same thing twice, it’s ok. This is a happy time, and you should celebrate (sans champagne)!
*this article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not substitute medical advice*
