Pregnancy After 40

More and more women are choosing to embark on the journey of motherhood after the age of 40. While this is a beautiful and empowering choice, it's essential to understand the unique considerations and requirements of a mature pregnancy.

The Risks of Pregnancy After 40

It's true that pregnancies in women over 40 might have slightly higher risks, but with modern medicine and proactive health practices, many of these risks can be managed. The primary reasons for increased risks are:

• Ageing Ovaries: Older eggs can increase the chances of chromosomal abnormalities.
• Natural Decline in Fertility: The number and quality of eggs decrease as women age.
• Higher Likelihood of Underlying Health Issues: Conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes might develop or become more pronounced with age.

However, with the right care and guidance, many women over 40 experience healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies.

Supporting Your Pregnancy After 40

To best support your pregnancy, focusing on three main areas can be beneficial: lifestyle, nutrition, and supplements.

Lifestyle

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is paramount for every pregnancy, but it becomes even more crucial as one advances in age. It ensures the wellness of both the mother and the baby and can reduce potential complications.

• Regular Medical Check-ups: It's crucial to see your healthcare provider regularly for prenatal care, ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby.
• Reduced Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as meditation, prenatal yoga, and deep-breathing exercises.
• Avoiding Toxins: Minimise exposure to harmful chemicals, avoid alcohol, and give up smoking.
• Stay Active: Engage in low-impact exercises like swimming or walking to support physical health during pregnancy.

Nutrition

Nutrition plays a pivotal role during pregnancy, supporting the development of the baby and sustaining the mother's health. After 40, it becomes essential to ensure you're obtaining all the vital nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy.

• Folate: Supports neural tube development. Found in leafy greens, citrus fruits, and beans.
• Iron: Vital for increasing blood volume. Found in lean meats, poultry, fish, and fortified cereals.
• Calcium: Supports skeletal development. Found in dairy products, fortified plant milk, and leafy greens.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promote brain and eye development. Found in fatty fish, chia seeds, and flaxseeds.

Supplements

Supplements can fill any nutritional gaps, ensuring that the body receives all it requires during this crucial time. This becomes especially relevant for pregnancies after 40, where certain nutrient needs might be heightened.

• Prenatal Vitamins: A comprehensive blend, often containing folic acid, iron, calcium, and vitamin D. We recommend our Vital Essence range. As your pregnancy progresses, your body requires different quantities of different vitamins and minerals. Each product in the range has been specifically formulated to support the requirements of that specific trimester.
• Consider NAC: N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) can be beneficial and give additional support for individuals with high-risk pregnancies.
• Omega-3 Supplements: It is estimated that over 60% of the UK population is deficient in omega-3.
• Iron Supplements: Particularly if you've been diagnosed with anaemia during pregnancy.
• Calcium and Vitamin D: For mothers who might need an extra boost, especially during the winter months.

While there might be slightly increased risks associated with pregnancy after 40, the right care, nutrition, and lifestyle choices can go a long way in ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and baby. Embrace this special journey with knowledge and support.