How to Have a Healthy Pregnancy Over 40
Outdated research suggests that sustaining a pregnancy over 35 is difficult and risky. But today, more women in their 30s are having healthy babies. Between 2018 and 2020, 44.4% of all babies born in America had mothers aged 30 to 39!
But what about parents who plan on having a kid at 40? Is it possible, or is it too risky? Let’s look at how to maintain a healthy pregnancy over 40!
Is It Possible to Get Pregnant After 40?
Between 2018 and 2020, women over 40 gave birth to 3.5% of all babies born in the US. While it’s not the majority, it is a significant percentage! We know that fertility peaks in your 20s, but a natural pregnancy isn’t impossible in your 40s.
A woman’s ovaries contain about a million eggs at birth, and this number decreases every day as they age. By the time they reach the fertility peak in their 20s, the number drops to about 200,000. By age 40, the estimates put it at approximately 20,000 eggs.
But quantity isn’t the only factor to consider because the quality of eggs also matters. Every woman, regardless of age, has eggs that are abnormal in the genetic sense. But by the early 40s, the amount of normal eggs hovers at 20% to 30%.
These numbers mean that the risk of having a genetic abnormality or a miscarriage is higher after 40. Genetic testing is essential if you’re considering having your first kid at 40. Doctors will also be able to see how many healthy eggs are available.
Over 40 Pregnancy Risks
Because a woman’s egg quantity and quality decrease with age, an over 40 pregnancy poses some risks. Multiple studies have found that these women have a higher risk of obstetrical and fetal complications. These complications and risks include higher rates of:
- Thrombosis risk
- Gestational hypertension
- Medical treatment
- Blood transfusions
- Gestational diabetes
- Preeclampsia
- Emergency and elective C-sections
- Lengthier hospital stay and recovery
Another serious risk that increases with age is the likelihood of having a child with Down syndrome. A woman in her 30s has a 0.29% chance, which climbs to 1% for women in their 40s. By 45 years, the risk is 3.3%, or 1 in 30.
Over 40 Pregnancy Benefits
Now let’s get to the good news! Having a baby over 40 also has some rarely discussed benefits. These benefits can include:
- More flexibility at work, more time for childrearing
- Better financial situation
- More mature and responsible
Beyond these obvious benefits, modern research has found some surprising trends. Some studies in Sweden linked advanced maternal age to children who:
- Are taller
- Have lower mortality rates
- Have better cognitive abilities
- Achieve more success in high school
- Go on to pursue higher education more often
Some studies also found that older mothers tend to be happier! Mothers in their 30s experience more negative emotions towards raising children while older moms don’t. One possible explanation is that older mothers are more prepared for the challenges of raising kids!
How to Prepare for Pregnancy Over 40
Scientific research provides the keys to a healthy pregnancy over 40! Studies have found that pregnancy outcomes remained almost the same, regardless of age, if women:
- Treat pre-existing conditions before pregnancy
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Deliver the baby at a perinatal center
- Follow a strict monitoring plan
Pre-pregnancy counseling is a crucial first step for couples who want to get pregnant. For parents over 40, it’s even more important! A medical team can perform the necessary tests and create a successful plan.
Mother’s Health
The mother’s health is one of the most significant factors of a healthy pregnancy. Studies have found that women over 40 should focus on:
- Quitting nicotine and alcohol
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Taking folic acid and supplements
- Stabilizing comorbidities
The best way to maintain health during pregnancy is by following your doctor’s advice. Mothers over 40 are especially encouraged to seek pre-conception counseling. The doctor can create a viable pregnancy plan that promotes the mother’s and baby’s well-being.
Father’s Health
The father’s health is another factor that can influence the success of a pregnancy. A man’s reproductive ability also declines with age. Sperm count and motility peak in the early 30s and decrease drastically by their 50s.
Maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle is also encouraged for men. Some research shows that pursuing a recommended body weight, reducing stress, and focusing on health can maintain healthy sperm. But this isn’t the only problem men face.
Many men also choose to get a vasectomy in their 30s and early 40s. Statistics for this age group indicate that around 11.4% of vasectomy patients, or 3.6 million men, are between 30 and 45. But what happens if they decide to try for a child after 40?
Luckily, vasectomy reversal success rates are high! Finding a professional surgeon who provides high-quality care is the first step. Fertility testing might also be a good option post-vasectomy reversal.
Pregnancy Monitoring
Once you become pregnant, it’s essential to begin prenatal care. Your obstetrician should monitor your pregnancy to catch any potential issues. Early diagnosis and treatment can protect the mother’s and baby’s health!
Since a woman’s age and the risk of birth defects have a connection, your doctor may suggest a few tests. They will also assess your personal and family history for possible concerns. Tests during pregnancy can include:
- Alpha-fetoprotein test
- Quad screen
- Fetal cell-free DNA test
- Ultrasounds
- Chromosome or genetic testing
Depending on your medical history and test results, your doctor may or may not treat the pregnancy differently. Some older mothers are perfectly healthy and go on to have normal pregnancies! Others experience some complications and work with a high-risk pregnancy specialist.
Having Kids at 40 Is Possible!
Becoming a parent is both exciting and scary, regardless of your age. But a pregnancy over 40 can pose certain risks and complications you might not experience in your 20s.
The good news is that many women over 40 give birth to healthy, happy babies! The important thing is to prepare properly and enjoy your pregnancy. With your doctor’s guidance and a healthy lifestyle, there’s no reason not to have a successful pregnancy.
For more parenting tips and health articles, check out more great content below!
Trevor Anderson wrote this article on behalf of FreeUp. FreeUp is the fastest-growing freelance marketplace in the US. FreeUp only accepts the top 1% of freelance applicants. Click here to get access to the top freelancers in the world.
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