As a woman over 35 years old, did you know you are technically in advanced maternal age? It sounds a little weird since 35 doesn't sound old at all, but if you are pregnant you may need some specialized ob services in order to keep your baby healthy. There are several services that you may require or desire to ease your mind while pregnant. Just a few of the services available to you are as follows.
Genetic Testing
Genetic testing is a blood test that is usually conducted early in your pregnancy. It can tell you the gender of the baby as early as 11 weeks, as well as any genetic abnormalities your baby may have. This information can help you to emotionally prepare, as well as prepare your home for any future needs your child may have. Genetic testing can let you know if your child has conditions such as trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), trisomy 18 (Edward's Syndrome), or even neural tube defects. You can talk to your doctor about genetic testing as early as your initial appointment.
Nutrition Counseling
Advanced maternal age brings with it some increased risk of conditions, such as gestational diabetes. As such, your nutrition while pregnant is extremely important. If you need help with your nutrition or simply want to decrease your risk of gestational diabetes, you may want to talk to your doctor about nutrition counseling. Gestational diabetes can make your pregnancy much more difficult than it needs to be with feelings of malaise, fatigue, and nausea. Meeting with a dietician can help you to make healthier food choices and keep your weight in check while helping your little baby to develop. Nutrition counseling is also available after your delivery to help you get back to your pre-birth weight.
Non-Stress Tests
Non-stress tests (NSTs) will likely be performed later in your pregnancy by attaching monitors to your belly and monitoring the baby's heart rate for a certain amount of time. This test can help to show the baby's health without being too invasive. Some women require non-stress tests once or twice a week for the last several weeks of their pregnancy, while others may go the full gestation without receiving one. Most doctors and hospitals will likely perform an NST during your labor and delivery to keep track of your child's heartbeat.
Talk to your physician if you have more questions about how to care for your advanced maternal age pregnancy.
For more information, contact an OB doctor near you.
Share15 April 2022
I was always very healthy throughout my childhood, but when I became a teenager, I was diagnosed with a chronic illness. Thankfully, I had the support of my loving family to help keep me upbeat during a time that could have led to me experiencing the depression that some do after they first learn they will have an illness for life. I am very grateful for the advice I have gotten throughout my life, so I decided to create a blog where I can share all of the advice that has helped me live a happy, healthy life, despite having a chronic illness. Since I am on a medication that suppresses my immune system, I have also studied up on many other illnesses and tips for avoiding them and treating them. I plan to post health tips for people of a variety of ages and suffering with various illnesses!