All first time expectant and new moms whether they are 22 or 42 have the same emotional and physical challenges created by pregnancy and by raising an infant. There is also a growing trend to have babies later in age after education is finished and careers are established. There are many pros and cons for having children early in life, or waiting till 35 or 40 year old.
Women who are above 35 years of age are prone to various pregnancy risks as age and the health of the mother plays a very important role during pregnancy. The older a woman is the less chances of being fertile as fertility may decrease with age. Older expectant moms are at risk as they have greater chances of suffering from health problems such as hypertension, diabetes and diseases of the heart, kidney and reproductive organs.
Older moms have a higher chance of giving birth to low-weight, pre-term babies. Miscarriages and still birth are more common as well. Placental problems may arise such as placental pervia which may require a C-section. Babies with chromosomal birth defects and other congenital abnormalities are other risk factors.
New and expectant moms over 35 and 40 face other unique challenges. Many older moms are facing the challenge of caring for aging parents while trying to raise a toddler. They can be experiencing postpartum and menopause issues at the same time.
However, there are other benefits to having babies at an older age. A definite advantage to having children in your late 30s or in your 40s is that you’ve likely had a lot of life experiences, whether exotic, or romantic holidays or simply experiences that have given you the opportunity to learn something that has made you a even more mature, responsible and knowledgeable.
Financially the family may be more stable as careers have been established – you’ll have had two decades to develop your career. This also means that taking a break to become a mother isn’t likely to have as great of an effect as if you were to do so when you were starting out your career. A family home may already be established with enough room to raise a family.
In terms of your relationship, chances are you’re in a position whereby you feel extremely comfortable with your partner and as if you can face anything together, including bringing a new life into the world.
By the time you hit 40, you’re likely to have got all of your partying and particularly late nights out of your system, making it less of a problem making the transition into a mother, whereby your focus shifts from yourself and your friends to your baby.
It is important remember, a parent offers love, support and guidance and age has no factor in being able to do that. Being healthy at any age is the first step in having a healthy pregnancy and childbirth.
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