What should older women pay attention to when getting pregnant?
Jan 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Due to the increased risk of chronic diseases in older women, a health assessment is recommended before pregnancy to determine whether they have chronic diseases, infectious diseases, genetic disorders, or other conditions. Women with chronic diseases should be evaluated for pregnancy suitability. Preconception counseling should be provided for all older women planning pregnancy, including general health assessment, genetic counseling, and pre-pregnancy health education.
Due to the increased risk of chronic diseases in older women, a pre-pregnancy health assessment is recommended to determine whether they have chronic illnesses, infectious diseases, genetic disorders, or other conditions. This evaluation helps assess whether women with chronic diseases are suitable candidates for pregnancy and provides preconception guidance for all advanced-age women planning to conceive, including general health assessment, genetic counseling, pre-pregnancy health education, and consultation regarding the suitability of pregnancy in older women.
A pregnancy in which the mother is aged ≥35 years at delivery is defined as advanced maternal age pregnancy. Expectant mothers who are over 35 years old at the time of delivery are referred to as advanced maternal age pregnant women; those over 40 are considered extremely advanced maternal age pregnant women. If advanced maternal age pregnant women have poor health status, abnormal fetal position, or other risk factors, preparations for cesarean section should be made in advance.
Pregnant women are encouraged to actively participate in exercises suitable for pregnancy to help prevent gestational complications such as anemia, diabetes, and hypertension caused by inadequate weight management. It is also important for expectant mothers to prepare psychologically and maintain a positive and joyful mindset while anticipating the arrival of their newborns.
