No matter what age you are, most people would wish for a child to continue their genetic line or to uphold their family legacy. They know very well that the mere presence of a child far outweighs the costs of taking care of the child. Thus, many women still find themselves yearning for a child at 40 years of age or have already become pregnant at such an age.
Most doctors do not recommend pregnancy at this age. However, that does not mean that conception is not possible. Although, it can take more time and more preparation because the success rate of fertility treatment becomes lower after 35 years of age. Hence, if you are trying to conceive over this age, you might want to have a thorough medical exam first. It is important to check your cholesterol level, blood pressure, blood sugar level as the first step of determining your health.
Most people are not afraid to take risks. Surviving pregnancy over 40 does take courage and patience because there are more odds to fight against. However, due to vigilance and perhaps a healthy constitution, those who have taken such risks have been blessed with healthy children. All would-be mothers who are planning or expecting pregnancy over 40 should know the risks and plan such pregnancies with their eyes wide open.
If you are still young, say 25 or 30 or 35 years old, but have not found the right partner to have a baby with, you can preserve your fertility to enable you to withstand pregnancy over 40. To be in great shape and lessen the risks that usually accompanies pregnancies over 40, start getting a healthy lifestyle. There are many benefits to exercise. It keeps you veering away from your healthy or optimal weight. It strengthens and keeps your muscles young. Thus, your body can withstand the strains of additional weight when you become pregnant. Folic acid and iron are extremely important supplements, even for women who are not planning on getting pregnant. The dietary recommendation is at least 400 micrograms of folic acid and 40 milligrams of iron. Avoid smoking (first hand or second hand) altogether. Cut back on booze and caffeine, too.
Pregnancy over 40 is not an easy matter to deal with. At this age, there is a high risk of miscarriages due to lethal birth defects or genetic abnormalities. Down syndrome is also one of the genetic anomalies for babies conceived by mothers over 40 years of age. Stillbirths are also a strong possibility. Given the seriousness of these health issues, women who are pregnant over the age 40 should have begun and continued to follow their health regimens religiously to preserve not only their health, but also the health of their babies.
About the Author
Athelstan Eades has been writing product reviews on a huge range of topics for many years now. His latest project has been to review the pregnancy market. There are so many products out there that claim to cure infertility but do they actually work. Take a look at some of Athelstan’s articles on pregnancy over 40 and male infertility treatment to find out more.
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