Since the implementation of the universal two-child policy, numerous couples have begun active pregnancy preparation. Every parent hopes to deliver a healthy baby, and women of advanced maternal age (aged 35 and above) face significantly higher reproductive risks than younger women. Below is a complete guide on pregnancy preparation for elderly women.

Pre-Pregnancy Preparation

1. Both partners shall adjust dietary patterns rationally to achieve scientific and balanced nutrition. Women shall prioritize folic acid supplementation.

2. Eliminate unhealthy lifestyles and habits, including smoking, alcohol drinking and drug dependence. Avoid extreme fatigue, excessive stress, anxiety and depression. Medication or psychological therapy shall be adopted when necessary.

3. Avoid exposure to toxic and hazardous substances such as mercury, lead, organic solvents, pesticides, formaldehyde and X-rays.

4. Do not take medicines indiscriminately during conception preparation. All medication must be administered under professional medical guidance.

5. Both husband and wife shall receive comprehensive physical examinations to rule out diseases that may cause fetal malformations. Women shall undergo pathogen screening for teratogens, including rubella virus, cytomegalovirus and toxoplasma gondii.

Key Precautions for Pregnancy at Advanced Maternal Age

1. Undergo a full physical examination half a year prior to conception to assess cardiac, pulmonary, hepatic and renal functions for pregnancy suitability. Conception can only proceed after a comprehensive physical evaluation by physicians. Start folic acid supplementation three months before pregnancy and continue through the first three months of gestation.

2. Attend regular prenatal checkups to screen high-risk conditions including gestational diabetes, hypertension and hyperthyroidism, and continuously monitor fetal development. Timely treatment or pregnancy termination shall be arranged once abnormalities are detected. For women with a previous cesarean delivery: screen for scar pregnancy in early gestation; rule out placenta previa and placental accreta in the second and third trimesters; monitor for signs of impending uterine rupture throughout pregnancy.

3. Women of advanced maternal age are eligible for prenatal diagnosis. Complete prenatal screening and diagnostic tests for birth defects promptly to minimize the risk of fetal malformations.

4. Maintain a healthy diet, moderate exercise and regular daily routine. Adopt balanced eating habits and consistent physical activity during pregnancy to achieve reasonable weight gain and reduce the risk of difficult labor.