The reproductive age, commonly known as childbearing age, pertains to the period when individuals have the biological capacity to conceive. In women, this phase is usually from the onset of puberty until menopause. In this article, we delve into the topic of age preferences for pregnancy among urban women. We aim to understand the various factors that influence their decisions. As women pursue diverse career paths, understanding the intersection of lifestyle, health, and family planning becomes crucial in urban environments.
Growing Trend Among Urban Women to Delay Pregnancy
In India, women living in urban areas are opting to have children later in life, typically after the age of 30. This trend is influenced by a combination of social, economic, and cultural factors. One of the main reasons is the shift in education and career opportunities for women. As more women pursue higher education and establish themselves in their careers, they are choosing to delay starting a family. The desire to achieve personal and professional goals before becoming a mother has become a common trend.
The process of urbanization has a significant impact on people’s lifestyles, especially for women. With improved healthcare facilities in cities, women are more mindful of their health and well-being. This awareness prompts them to delay pregnancy until they are financially stable and physically prepared. As a result, women are better equipped to make informed choices about family planning and reproductive health.
Social norms are changing, which is leading to a rise in delayed pregnancies. In urban areas of India, traditional beliefs are being challenged as more and more people accept the idea of women pursuing careers before or alongside starting a family. This change signifies a larger shift in how gender roles and expectations are perceived.
Delayed pregnancies come with their fair share of challenges, such as higher chances of fertility problems and complications. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain a balance between personal/career goals and family planning.
Risks of Getting Pregnant After 35 years
Getting pregnant after the age of 35 involves certain risks and considerations. As women grow older, their fertility declines, making it more challenging to conceive. Additionally, there are increased risks for both the mother and baby during pregnancy and childbirth, including:
- Decreased fertility
- Increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities
- Higher likelihood of multiple pregnancies
- Higher risk of pregnancy complications (gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, preeclampsia)
- Increased risk of preterm birth
Despite the potential risks, it is crucial to recognize that many women who are older than 35 years have safe pregnancies and deliver healthy infants. Regular prenatal care, a healthy lifestyle, and honest communication with healthcare providers can help minimize some of these risks and ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and baby.
Geriatric Pregnancy and Nutrition
When it comes to a geriatric pregnancy, which refers to pregnancies in women aged 35 and above, paying attention to proper nutrition is essential for the health of both the mother and baby. Older mothers may face unique challenges and factors to consider regarding their diet. Let’s explore the key aspects to focus on:
Folic acid intake: Having sufficient folic acid is essential in preventing neural tube defects in the growing baby. Older women should make sure they’re meeting the recommended daily intake by taking supplements or consuming fortified foods.
Calcium and vitamin D: As women age, it is crucial to maintain bone health by consuming essential nutrients. Dairy products, leafy greens, and supplements can all help support bone health during and after pregnancy.
Iron-rich foods: During pregnancy, the body requires more iron to support the increase in blood volume. Including foods such as lean meats, legumes, and fortified cereals in your diet can help fulfill these requirements and prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Protein intake: Protein plays a vital role in the development of the fetus and the repair of maternal tissues. Include a variety of protein sources in your diet, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, and plant-based options.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Including these fats in diet is vital for baby’s brain and eye development. Good sources of these essential fats include fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
Hydration: Hydration is key during pregnancy, as it supports digestion, circulation, and the production of amniotic fluid.
Monitoring blood sugar levels: Advancing maternal age increases the risk of developing gestational diabetes. However, by closely monitoring and controlling their blood sugar levels through a well-balanced diet, this risk can be reduced.
Regular prenatal check-ups: Regular prenatal check-ups are crucial for older mothers as they help keep track of their health and the baby’s growth. These check-ups may also involve nutritional assessments and guidance to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
In summary, the choice of women to delay pregnancy until a later stage in life is influenced by a multitude of factors that reflect the evolving dynamics of societal norms, educational pursuits, and career aspirations. To guarantee a healthy pregnancy, it is essential to prioritize regular prenatal care, maintain a nutritious diet, stay physically active, manage stress, and seek guidance from healthcare professionals for individualized care.
References:
1. Ibarra-Nava, I., Choudhry, V., & Agardh, A. (2020). Desire to delay the first childbirth among young, married women in India: a cross-sectional study based on national survey data. BMC public health, 20(1), 350. https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-020-8402-9.
2. Ganguly, S., & Unisa, S. (2010). Trends of Infertility and Childlessness in India: Findings from NFHS Data. Facts, views & vision in ObGyn, 2(2), 131–138. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4188020/#:
3. Pregnancy after 35: Healthy pregnancies, healthy babies. MAYO CLINIC. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20045756#:
4. Pregnancy after age 35. MARCH OF DIMES. https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/pregnancy-after-age-35.
