Some of the risks involved in getting pregnant after 35 include reduced fertility, gestational diabetes, elevated blood pressure, higher change of premature birth, babies developing genetic abnormalities, increased risk of miscarriage and stillbirth, higher chances of undergoing C-Section, etc.

There is no doubt that age is just a number and you shouldn’t let your age come in the way of enjoying life to the hilt. However, when it comes to getting pregnant and becoming a mother, your age plays a crucial role. It is simply a myth that you cannot become a mother after you turn 35. If you are more than 35 and want to start a family, you can have a healthy pregnancy and baby, but should be aware of the risks involved. Yes, pregnancy after 35 may not be as easy as one at 23, but that does not mean you cannot be a mother!

Source: Persil and Comfort

Understanding the risks of getting pregnant after 35 will help you take the right steps so that you enjoy a healthy pregnancy and ensure your baby health during those 9 months.

Risks of Getting Pregnant After 35

Once a woman crosses 35, she becomes aware that her biological clock may not tick for many more years. Hence, after achieving success in other fields of life, she finally decides to enjoy the fruits of motherhood. Many women have gone on to have healthy pregnancies after 35, so why shouldn’t you? Yes, there are a few risks that you should know of, but with the right healthcare professional at your side, these risks can be averted. You too can enjoy a happy and exciting pregnancy without worrying all the 9 months!

Reduced Fertility

Every woman in childbearing age has a finite number of eggs. Once you cross 35, the quality and quantity of your eggs diminish. Hence, it will take longer for you to conceive compared to a woman in her 20s or early 30s. If you haven’t conceived after trying for six months, it is time to consult your physician.

Twins or More

Women over the age of 35 have a higher chance of multiple pregnancies. Healthcare professionals believe this chance increases with advancing age. Also, assisted reproductive methods, like in-vitro fertilization, also have a role to play, as many 35+ women may seek these treatments to boost their chances of getting pregnant.

Gestational Diabetes

This form of diabetes develops only when a woman is pregnant. It has been observed older women are more prone to gestational diabetes than younger one. Thankfully, you can prevent this from occurring by controlling your diet and staying physically active during your pregnancy. If your diabetes does not get treated, your baby may grow too big in the womb, increasing the chances of you getting injured during natural childbirth.

Elevated Blood Pressure

According to available research, high blood pressure during pregnancy is more prevalent in older women. Hence, this is the reason your OB/GYN will carefully monitor your blood pressure during your pregnancy. If you do develop high blood pressure during pregnancy, the doctor may put you on medication to reduce it. Sometimes, pregnant women also have preterm babies through surgical intervention to prevent complications from developing.

Higher Likelihood of Premature Birth

Women over 35 risk having premature births and babies with low birth weight. If your baby is born too early, he could have certain health complications.

Genetic Abnormalities

It has been observed older women have a higher chance of giving birth to a baby with chromosomal abnormalities, like Down syndrome. Unfortunately, there is no treatment to avert these abnormalities.

Increased Risk of Miscarriage and Stillbirth

As you grow older, the likelihood of a miscarriage or stillbirth increases. Usually, this is due to a health condition a woman has or due to chromosomal abnormality that the fetus develops. To ensure a healthy baby, your doctor will closely monitor the baby during the last few weeks of your pregnancy.

More Chances of Undergoing a C-Section

Women older than 35 are at a higher risk of pregnancy-related health complications. Hence, such women invariably need a C-section. Placenta previa is one such pregnancy-related problem that can occur in older women, necessitating a caesarean.

All is Not Lost

You can still become pregnant after 35, as long as you take measures to reduce risks to yourself and your baby. Some of the things you should do include:

• Get a complete medical checkup done before you decide to conceive
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet
• Exercise regularly and stay physically active
• Refrain from consuming alcohol and smoking
• Don’t take any herbal supplements or medications without consulting your OB/GYN first

If you do have any health problems, let your doctor know. Your doctor will monitor your condition throughout your pregnancy and ensure you and your baby come out of it unscathed and healthy.