Debunking myths behind late pregnancies

Have you crossed 35 and are you scared about getting pregnant because of all the advice you've been getting about late pregnancies being difficult and unmanageable? The thought of getting pregnant post 35 gives most women the jitters? Worry not! Today, Dr. Asha Sharma, HOD, Obst. & Gynecology at Rockland Hospital, New Delhi debunks all the myths related to late pregnancies. Read on... Myth 1: I can only have a C-section because I have crossed the average age of pregnancy. Fact: If the patient has had previous normal deliveries, then chances of having normal deliveries in the future are high. However, in a primigravida or a woman pregnant for the first time, the chances of c-section might be increased. Nevertheless, a normal delivery is still possible, since age is not the only factor that determines c-sections or normal deliveries. Myth 2: My chance of having a malformed baby is high. Fact: While it is true that some studies have shown increased chances of down syndrome, it is not necessary that every woman will have a malformed baby after 35. You should be regular with your gynecologist check ups in order to avoid any kind of confusion or complicacies. Apart from the routine investigation antenatal test, you may need special tests like Triple test, (for down syndrome) to rule out any abnormalities in the fetus. Myth 3: I will not lose the weight that I put on if I get pregnant post 35. Fact: Weight gain during pregnancy even at the age of 35 post natal period can be lost. You can easily lose your weight by eating healthy, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle as suggested by your doctor. Your diet should be well balanced. If you are an overweight mommy-to-be, then strictly follow the diet recommended by your doctor. Carbohydrates, proteins and fats should be included in proper amounts. Your diet should also have enough minerals, vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids. In addition to eating well and exercising, making time to relax should be priority too. Yoga, meditation, massages and a strong support network of friends and family will help a lot. Myth 4: I am 35 and single. Adoption looks like the only option for me. Fact: Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can be a few of the options for you, and then comes adoption. The flip side to these procedures is that these processes can be fairly expensive and results are not always as predictable as you would want them to be. Myth 5: Getting pregnant is a fairly simple exercise, even post 35. I just need to be regular with my periods. Right? Fact: Even though most women with regular periods have high chances of conceiving naturally, this may not be the case with all 35 above women. The best way forward is to go and visit an infertility specialist to be on the safer side, in order to avoid any regrets later.