What Mature Moms Should Know About Having Kids
If you have waited until an older age to have a baby, then it vital to have the correct medical care from an obstetrician. Going through a pregnancy when you are older can lead to a variety of health issues and it can be more risky for some women depending on their circumstances. Here are a few common health issues more mature moms might deal with before and after their pregnancy.
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High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a common problem for women during pregnancy due to the rapid increase in weight. An older woman is more likely to have high blood pressure before her pregnancy. If you develop high blood pressure, then your obstetrician will monitor you carefully to avoid additional complications such as toxemia. This is a dangerous health problem that often requires an emergency Cesarean section to protect the life of the mother.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels that can cause a miscarriage. If a woman has gestational diabetes, then the baby tends have a larger birth weight, requiring a Cesarean section rather than a vaginal birth. Women with gestational diabetes may need insulin medication during a pregnancy, and in some cases, they will continue to have diabetes mellitus after giving birth.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition that affects the blood due to poor iron levels, and can cause a pregnant woman to feel lethargic and light-headed. In addition to being unhealthy for a pregnant woman, anemia is not good for the developing fetus. A physician will prescribe iron tablets and dietary changes to increase a pregnant woman’s hemoglobin levels. If a woman doesn’t improve her iron levels, then her newborn will likely have anemia as well.
Varicose Veins
Older women can develop varicose veins in their legs that are caused by the additional weight from a pregnancy, along with changes in her body’s blood flow. Fortunately, it is possible to visit a leg vein center after the baby is born to have treatments that are designed to eliminate the ugly and painful varicose veins. According to an Ivein Treatment Center in Provo Utah these sessions usually don’t last too long and the recovery is minimal.
Morning Sickness
Some women experience severe morning sickness that disrupts their lives. If an older pregnant woman is vomiting frequently throughout the day then her electrolyte level can change, causing serious health issues for a fetus. In addition, a pregnant woman may become dehydrated or lose weight, keeping the fetus from getting the nutrients required to remain healthy.
It is essential for an older pregnant woman to visit her obstetrician frequently for examinations to help avoid dangerous complications that can affect her health or the health of a fetus. Be sure to stay on top of appointments as you welcome your new little one into the world.
Eileen O’Shanassy is a freelance writer and blogger based out of Flagstaff, AZ. She writes on a variety of topics and loves to research and write. She enjoys baking, biking, and kayaking. Check out her Twitter @eileenoshanassy.
