Women over 35 years old who become pregnant have risks for both the mother and the baby. Whenever a mother knows or suspects she is pregnant, she should promptly see a doctor or start prenatal care early.
Health Check… Assessing Risks for the Mother
Care begins with a doctor’s health check to identify any risks the mother may have, such as preeclampsia during labor, gestational diabetes, or tumors. These conditions need to be treated and managed accordingly. For example, diabetes requires dietary control and medication. The doctor will monitor and follow up from the start of prenatal care.
For the baby, there is a risk related to chromosomes, with a higher chance of abnormalities compared to mothers under 35 years old. To reduce the baby’s risk, the mother should start prenatal care as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. This includes accurate chromosomal screening and amniocentesis between 16-20 weeks of gestation.
Dietary Recommendations for Pregnant Mothers
Regarding diet, mothers should eat a balanced diet covering all five food groups. If planning pregnancy, folic acid can be taken before conception. Mothers should avoid raw or undercooked foods, tea, coffee, soft drinks, alcohol, and importantly, control their weight to avoid exceeding standard weight limits. As age increases, weight tends to increase even without pregnancy.
Can Pregnant Mothers Exercise?
For mothers who want to exercise, light exercise is recommended. Those who exercised regularly before pregnancy should reduce the intensity during pregnancy. Mothers who did not exercise before pregnancy should avoid excessive exercise while pregnant.
Medication should always be consulted with a doctor, and sufficient rest is important. Pregnancy may cause difficulty sleeping or frequent waking at night, such as needing to use the bathroom often. If possible, mothers should take naps during the day because increased blood flow to the uterus during pregnancy often causes drowsiness and fatigue.
Dr. Tharinee Lamluk
Specialist in Maternal and Fetal Medicine
Women’s Health Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
