Congratulations on your pregnancy!

Having a baby is a wonderful experience, no matter what age you are. However, it’s important to be aware of the unique challenges that pregnant women over the age of 35 face. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the issues that may arise and offer tips on how to stay safe and healthy throughout your pregnancy.

Issues that may arise

• Fertility: It may take longer to get pregnant after the age of 35. This is because the quality and quantity of eggs decrease with age however, hurray! you are pregnant.
• Miscarriage and stillbirth: The risk of miscarriage and stillbirth is slightly higher in women over 35. Don’t sweat it, you will be fine just read on!
• Multiple pregnancy: Twin and triplet pregnancies are more common in women over 35. Now that is a blessing as we can get it over and done with in a circle lol.
• Pregnancy complications: Pregnant women over 35 are at increased risk of certain pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and high blood pressure. This is why we reconmend a good doctor that understand you are special and need special attention.
• Chromosomal abnormalities: Babies born to women over 35 have a higher risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome. Now you know this is not a village doing someone something.

Tips for staying safe and healthy

• Get regular prenatal care: It’s important to see your doctor regularly throughout your pregnancy, especially if you’re over the age of 35. Your doctor will monitor your health and the health of your baby to identify any potential problems early on.
• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet is important for all pregnant women, but it’s especially important for women over 35. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine, working mom’s I am talking to you lol.
• Get regular exercise: Exercise is also important for all pregnant women, but it’s especially important for women over 35. Exercise can help to reduce your risk of pregnancy complications and improve your overall health. Talk to your doctor about how much exercise is safe for you during pregnancy. However, taking a 30minutes work daily can help keep you and baby healthy.
• Manage stress: Stress can be harmful to both you and your baby. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature. I use to meditate while my favourite slow music collection played in the background for 20 minutes daily.

Additional tips for pregnant women over 35 in Nigeria

• Be aware of the risks of malaria: Malaria is a serious infection that can be harmful to pregnant women and their babies. If you’re pregnant and living in Nigeria, it’s important to take precautions to prevent malaria. You can do this by using mosquito nets, wearing insect repellent, and staying indoors at dawn and dusk.Please do not self medicate as malaria drugs are harmful to the baby, if you are very ill please visit your doctor and let them know you are pregnant.
• Eat a nutritious diet: Make sure to eat plenty of foods that are high in iron, calcium, and folic acid. These nutrients are essential for the development of your baby. Please reduce eba, pounded yam and spicey meals as it can make you constipated and feeling heavy.
• Get enough rest: Pregnancy can be tiring, so it’s important to get enough rest. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Sleep is a good way to get the energy back and especially when you know it’s going to be sleepless nights soon.
• Seek support from your family and friends: Having a baby can be a challenging experience, but it’s also a very rewarding one. Having a supportive network of family and friends can make a big difference. There is no shame in it, reach out to women in the same situation like you and build that support system that will keep your body and mind in a good space.

If you have any concerns about your pregnancy, please talk to your doctor. They can provide you with more specific advice and help you to stay safe and healthy throughout your pregnancy.

We wish you a safe delivery and if you find this article useful, do share with another pregnant mom over 35!

xoxo

Momat4ty