Pregnancy After 40
At the age of 40’s, you are far less likely to fall pregnant naturally. As early as 15 years before you go through menopause, the number of your eggs begins to decline.
Your reduced fertility is not first about the number of eggs you have through, it’s also about their quality. In mid 40’s, the eggs that your ovaries release each month are more likely to have structural problems (chromosomal abnormities) which in turn raises the risk of miscarriage and birth defects. The evaluation of the women is mandatory which helps in identifying at risk patients and also allow assessment for severe uterine pathology (Multiple fibroids or Adenomyosis ) that can compromise pregnancy outcome. Therefore they are required to undergo through testing which includes:-
- A comprehensive physical exam (General and Gynae ).
- Mammogram and PAP smear in proceeding 1-2 years.
- ECG
- Chest X-Ray
- Blood profile-Complete blood count, Serum lipid profile, and thyroid and Renal F tests. Ovarian reserve testing is also mandatory.
Cons of Pregnancy After 40
- If you do conceive, you are more likely to need extra care during your pregnancy. So most of the cons below are to do with health rather than lifestyle.
- You’re twice as likely as younger women to experience.
- Gestational Diabetes
- Pre – eclampsia
- Placenta previa
- Placental abruption
- The birth experience for a woman over 40 may be harder too. You are more likely to have a c- section.
- Your baby presenting in an awkward position at birth.
- Your baby being born with a low birth weight.
- Baby born premature / too soon.
- The odds of chromosomal problems also jump as you get order.
