What To Expect When You’re Expecting At Any Age

There’s no “right time” to get pregnant - only what’s right for you. At the Cincinnati Birthing Center, we want to make sure that you feel supported and safe no matter where you’re at in your pregnancy. Whether you’re 25 or 35 years old when you find out you're pregnant, there’s helpful advice you can follow that can help you foster a safe, healthy, and happy pregnancy. Here’s what our expert midwives had to say:

If you’re 25 or younger:

Medically, you have a lot of energy and strength. Because of this, it’s easy for you to run on your reserves. You need to remember to practice self care. Eat frequent meals with lots of protein. Take time out of your day to hydrate, take epsom salts baths, and connect with your baby. One of the most common complications during pregnancy at your age is anemia. Emphasize foods rich in iron such as dark leafy greens, dried fruit, eggs, meat, grass fed beef liver, dark chocolate, and tomatoes. 

You also should be aware that your friend’s and family’s perception of your choices could have a bigger impact on you. Make sure that your support system is a solid one. Only allow those people who will be 100% supportive of you at your birth. Without a supportive team at your birth, you may end up having a long difficult labor, asking for an epidural against your intentions, or transferring to the hospital due pressures from your family. Talk with your midwife about your support system. If you are not sure who to have present at your birth or how to include them, your midwife or doula can help you develop a plan.

If you’re between 25-30: 

Medically, your body is strong and you know how you like to feed it. You may be focused on your career or finishing school and have a routine in place. Find a nice water bottle to keep by your side. Be sure to take time out of your work routine for exercise. Take walks during your lunch break or in the evening. Go swimming on the weekends. Do yoga. 

You should also be aware that you can get “in your head” and overthink things, which can cause you to have anxiety or prolong your labor. Focus on preparing your mind for labor by taking a childbirth class that teaches relaxation techniques such as hypnobirthing or hypnobabies. Listen to guided relaxations or yoga nidras on Youtube. Take time out of your day to practice deep breathing. Develop confidence in yourself - you know what’s best for yourself and your baby. 

If you’re older than 30:

Medically, you may have had one or several children, or maybe this is your first. Either way, you have the mental stamina to get through whatever this child brings you. You will not have the same amount of energy as a 20 year old unless you are careful to eat a rainbow diet of fruits and vegetables, hydrate, and minimize processed foods, white flour, and white sugar. Even then, energy or sleep could be somewhat of a struggle. Talk to your midwife to see what can be done holistically to support your pregnancy and help you rest.  

You also should see a chiropractor and massage therapist regularly. You may have developed habits or routines from previous pregnancies or your lifestyle that could make your pregnancy or labor more difficult. Working with a physical therapist can help you learn how to support your body throughout the pregnancy and into the postpartum. Take vitamin D and an omega 3 supplements to help reduce your chances of developing diabetes and boost your baby’s brain development.

Have more questions about your pregnancy? Contact us to set up a consultation with our team.