Advice for the older mom

Remember, most women aged 35 and over go on to have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.

If you're in your thirties, or older, and expecting your first child–here's some expert advice in answer to those frequently asked questions.

Q What's the best age to have a baby?
A The timing for starting a family depends on the individual circumstances of the prospective parents. For one woman the 'right time' to start a family may be at 20, while for another it may be 40. There are advantages and disadvantages to both.

Older women are often perceived to be more mature and more emotionally ready to start a family. They may have had an opportunity to develop a career and are more likely to be financially secure. Older women often have more difficulty getting pregnant, however. Younger women may have more energy and may be more able to cope with the physical demands of pregnancy and looking after a small child.

Q Am I putting my baby at risk by waiting?
A Studies have shown that women aged 35 years or older are at increased risk of some pregnancy-related complications such as a caesarean delivery, high blood pressure, preeclampsia and diabetes. Older women are also more likely to have smaller babies, babies born prematurely (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) or babies born with a birth problem. The rates of miscarriage and stillbirth are slightly higher in older women.

However, all these risks are actually very small. While it is normal to be concerned, it is important to remember that most women aged 35 and older will go on to have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.

Q How is it best to prepare?
A It's a good idea to see your doctor before you become pregnant, particularly if you have any existing health problems, to discuss the potential effects the condition may have on your pregnancy. Your doctor may need to alter any medication that you're taking, or to refer you to a specialist for advice.

It's best to be as healthy as possible before becoming pregnant! This includes eating a healthy, balanced diet, reducing or ceasing alcohol consumption, being a healthy weight and taking regular exercise. You should not take any non-prescribed medication or illegal substances while trying to conceive or during pregnancy. Your doctor or health professional can perform a routine physical, including measuring your blood pressure and give advice on a sensible target weight and on a healthy, balanced diet and food to avoid in pregnancy. A blood test can be taken to check that you are immune to rubella (German measles), and you can be vaccinated against it if you are not. You'll be advised to avoid becoming pregnant for a month following the vaccination.

Smoking in pregnancy, at any age, increases the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth, having a premature baby or a baby of low birthweight.

Q Should I take any supplements before or during pregnancy?
A If you're pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant you should take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily to reduce the risk of the baby developing a neural tube defect such as spina bifida. Aim to take folic acid for three months before you conceive and continue to take it during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. If you find that you are pregnant unexpectedly, start taking a folic acid supplement right away.

Q What care should I take during pregnancy?
A A healthy older woman should expect to have a normal, healthy pregnancy, birth and baby and is likely to receive prenatal care similar to a healthy younger woman. Regardless of age, any woman with an existing health problem should see an obstetrician for regular monitoring in pregnancy. Remember, it's important to attend all your prenatal appointments.

As a woman's age increases so does her risk of having a baby with a chromosomal disorder such as Down syndrome. Blood tests and ultrasound exams are available to assess your individual risk of having a baby affected by Down syndrome. If you're considered to be at high risk, a diagnostic test, CVS (chorionic villus sampling) or an amniocentesis can be done to confirm whether the baby is affected by a chromosomal abnormality. It's wise to discuss available options with your doctor early in your pregnancy.

Q Can I look forward to a normal, uncomplicated birth?
A There's no reason not to plan for a normal, uncomplicated birth if both you and the baby are healthy. The benefit of a positive outlook and a supportive birth partner should not be underestimated.

Q How tiring is it to care for a newborn?
A Looking after a newborn baby is tiring whatever your age. Babies on average feed six to eight times per 24 hours, so try to rest when your baby is resting.

Breastfeeding is beneficial to both you and your baby, giving your baby the best start in life, and can help you to return to your pre-pregnancy weight.