In our society, ideas about getting pregnant and raising a family are changing. Only a short while ago, it was thought that a woman in her mid-thirties was too old to conceive, and “miracle” babies were born to women past the age of 35.
Nowadays, it is becoming more common for women to wait until after age thirty to start planning and conceiving a family. Couples who wait a bit longer feel more stable, more secure, and better prepared to bring children into the world. If you are considering starting a family with your significant other in your thirties, here are some things you should know as you plan for the most significant event of your entire lives. Get ready!
1. It may be harder to become pregnant
Starting at age 32, there is a gradual decline in fertility, making it harder for a woman to become pregnant. Women are at their most fertile in their twenties, but most women this age are focusing on finishing their careers and getting married. If you do decide to wait a little longer to have children, take into account your declining fertility and the fact that you may have to go a few rounds before seeing a positive result.
2. You have an increased chance of having twins
In general, the chances of having twins increases as you age. Due to hormonal fluctuations, your chance of birthing multiples goes up. This could be due in part to the fact that couples over the age of 35 use fertility treatments more often than younger couples—be ready for some surprises at the doctor’s office if you are trying for children in your mid to late thirties!
3. Your chances of miscarriage increases
While there is a slight risk for miscarriage during everyone’s first trimester, your risk of miscarriage goes up with age. Most miscarriages are the result of chromosomal abnormalities, which are more common after mother turns 35. If you are concerned about genetic abnormalities, ask your doctor about additional testing that can be done to rule out issues for you and for baby.
4. You will experience body changes
No one can argue that it is a bit easier to get into shape in your twenties after having a baby. As you get older, the toll that pregnancy takes on your body is greater, and it is going to be a bit harder to bounce back. Many women in their thirties have established fitness routines, but it is worth having a conversation with your doctor to determine if any changes need to be made to your routine. It is acceptable to go easier on yourself during pregnancy; you will have plenty of time for physical activity as you keep up with your little one postpartum. Put your feet up for a while!
5. You will have emotional highs and lows during pregnancy
Due to the surge in extra hormones you have flooding your body, you will experience emotional highs and lows during pregnancy. Thankfully, with age comes a bit more wisdom—knowing what to expect from your emotions during this time will keep you from subjecting everyone around you to volatility while you ride your emotional waves. Taking a step back and a deep breath will allow you to observe your emotions while you release and review. Expect a bit of upheaval, and look forward to calmer days on the horizon.
6. There are increased health risks for mother and baby
In your thirties, you are at increased risk for:
– Pre-term labor
– Preterm birth
– Preeclampsia
– Gestational diabetes
– Low birth weight
– Cesarean birth
Having candid conversations with your doctor about potential risks will help you to proactively deal with issues as they come up, and they will allow for better care as you go through your pregnancy.
Get ready! Exciting times ahead!
You are in for one exciting ride as you contemplate motherhood with all of its challenges, risks, and rewards. Knowing what you are getting yourself into is key to enjoying yourself and taking advantage of that knowledge to make your pregnancy the most richly rewarding experience that you can. Best of luck to you, Mama! You’ll do great!
