In the past, getting pregnant in your 40s is considered a “disaster “, because it carried a bevy of fatal risks. But thanks to technology, the dangers associated with late-age pregnancies have been considerably minimized. Still and all, one can never be too careful. Technology or not, pregnancies conceived in your 40s are considered more” fragile” and risk-prone than those in your 20s or 30s. So, you have to exercise every caution in the book to carry your baby to term and deliver without incidents. We have compiled some helpful tips that will help make your journey easier and safer.
Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy at 40
1. Understand the Risks
Before conception, you must understand the risks associated with being pregnant at 40. Any pregnancy at 40 and beyond is considered high-risk with several possible complications. Some common complications include high blood pressure, Preeclampsia, miscarriage, gestational diabetes, low birth weight, and ectopic pregnancy.
2. Consider Chronic Conditions
Women in their 40s are often diagnosed with chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid disease, which are conditions that can impede or affect the seamless progression of pregnancy. They can birth complications that make it difficult to have a safe pregnancy or a healthy baby. As such, it is critical to get a yes from your doctor before you get pregnant. It is also wise to have a thorough examination and check-up before pregnancy to rule out pregnancy-affecting conditions and manage them effectively (if present).
3. Antenatal Care is a Must
Regular visits to the hospital while pregnant at 40 are a must. Don’t skip any appointment with your doctor and report even the slightest unusual change. Don’t sweep your worries under the carpet and feel free to discuss everything you feel with your doctor. Your doctor should be your best friend, confidante, and first point of call during this period. No, you are not being paranoid or overly cautious, you just want the best for you and your baby.
4. Exercise Regularly
40 or not, all pregnant women are advised to exercise religiously. It is more physically draining to carry a baby in your 40s than in your 30s and 20s, which makes exercising a must-do. Low-impact exercises like walking, yoga, and swimming are recommended. Be careful not to go overboard. Also, 40-year-old women who are physically fit and engage in regular exercise before pregnancy have an easier time getting and staying pregnant (you might want to start exercising if you are considering getting pregnant in your 40s).
5. Prioritize Your Vitamins
Always take your prenatal vitamin as it does a lot of good for you and your unborn baby. Supplement with fruits and vegetables that are loaded with healthy vitamins. This helps to minimize the risk of potential pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes. On the whole, eat a healthy balanced diet as food is vital to a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery.
More Tips
- Take a stroll every day and take in the beauty of nature. Practice meditation and gratitude while you are at it to stimulate calmness and relaxation.
- Take Omega-3 supplements at least three months before pregnancy to reduce the risks of complications and birth defects. The earlier you start taking these supplements, the better.
- Maintain a healthy weight by eating a healthy diet and avoid junk and bad carbs. Plant-based diets are highly recommended for a healthy weight.
- Give acupuncture and acupressure a shot to help alleviate some pregnancy symptoms like nausea.
- Steer clear of plastic containers as they can expose you to Bisphenol A (BPA), which is a harmful chemical that can encourage the development of cancer and certain disorders like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).