Advanced maternal age is an issue when you're trying to get pregnant in your late 30s or 40s. After 35, your chances of getting pregnant drop significantly.
However, many people continue to conceive later in life, so it's entirely possible. If you're over 35, you can take some extra steps to improve the odds of a healthy pregnancy.
At Collaborative Women's Care in Miami, Florida, our fantastic team is here to help you navigate your fertility. Dr. Eduardo Valdes is a board-certified OB/GYN who assists you with your fertility, regardless of age.
Advanced maternal age is a term when you're trying to get pregnant over 35. It's still possible to get pregnant over 35, but your fertility declines as you age.
You're also at risk for health concerns when you're of advanced maternal age. You're more likely to have a miscarriage and gestational diabetes during your pregnancy.
If you get pregnant, your baby is also at risk for chromosomal disorders. You're at a higher risk for high blood pressure throughout your pregnancy, and your chances of a cesarean section delivery go up.
It's important to understand, though, that these are risks. You could have a normal pregnancy without complications over the age of 35.
The best way to ensure the health of yourself and your future baby is to make a preconception appointment with Dr. Valdes as soon as you're ready to start trying.
As a woman, your fertility slowly declines in your mid-to-late 30s. It's a natural cycle because you're only born with some eggs. Your eggs are also less healthy as you age, making it more challenging to get pregnant.
Dr. Valdes helps you understand your fertility and provides tips on how to improve your fertility when you're over 35. Five of the essential tips for fertility include:
The key to your fertility is through the foods you eat. Make sure to include lean protein, fruits, and vegetables in your everyday diet. Eating a healthy diet is a great way to increase your chances of getting pregnant, especially when you're over 35.
When trying to conceive, it's a good idea to reduce your alcohol consumption. While this goes for any age, it's crucial when you're of advanced maternal age. During your fertile window and the two weeks after, it's especially vital to avoid alcohol consumption.
Regular physical activity may increase fertility by helping you maintain a healthy weight. Your body works much better when you're up and moving around than sitting on the couch.
If you've been trying to get pregnant without success, Dr. Valdes recommends tracking your ovulation. You can buy over-the-counter ovulation strips to determine when you ovulate.
Remember, though, your ovulation is affected by various lifestyle issues, meaning it could change from month to month.
Taking prenatal vitamins while trying to conceive is always a good idea. These vitamins contain folic acid and other essential nutrients your baby will need as it grows. Starting early prepares your body for conception.
The great news is Dr. Valdes is here to help when you're having trouble getting pregnant. Conditions vary significantly from cycle to cycle, and it may take you a few months to finally conceive.
However, suppose you and your partner have been trying to get pregnant for a year, and you're under 35. In that case, you should call Dr. Valdes for an infertility workup.
If you're over 35, you can seek infertility help from Dr. Valdes after trying for six months without success. Fertility slowly declines as you age, so seeking help sooner rather than later is a good idea.
You should also seek fertility help if you don't have regular menstrual cycles or don't get a menstrual cycle. Irregular periods could be a sign that you're not ovulating normally.
Endometriosis or other uterine disorders also decreases your chances of conception. Dr. Valdes screens you for these problems and offers several fertility treatments that improve your odds of getting pregnant.
If you're ready to consider getting pregnant after 35, don't hesitate to call our office today at 305-200-3878 to book an appointment. You can also schedule a consultation using our online booking feature.
