Preconception care for women at different ages

3 mins to read

Have you thought about what type of preconception care you need according to your age? Naturopath Stephanie Hamilton points out the areas to focus on for the different times in a woman’s life.

Pregnancy and preconception

Regardless of when you decide to have a child, preconception care is a must. There may be certain things you need to consider depending on your age and stage of life before you start the baby-making.

Early 20’s
The early twenties are commonly the most fertile time of a woman’s life. Unless there are complex hormonal and nutritional imbalances occurring, the female body is usually in optimal shape to conceive naturally and carry a pregnancy to term.

Preconception care - how long? Three months.
Even if you think you are at your peak, are fighting fit and your menstrual cycle is like clockwork; it’s still a good idea to consider following a 3 month preconception care plan. This might include cutting out alcohol, sugar and any other nutrient-depleting foods, minimising exposure to harmful chemicals, and getting active.

Ensure nutrition is optimal: Early stage foetal development depends on many nutrients that should be readily available in the woman’s body before conception occurs. Be sure to eat nourishing and nutritious foods and avoid or limit anything that is going to deplete you of fertility boosting nutrients.

Maintain good health with supplements: Start taking a pregnancy multivitamin that contains nutrients you need for a healthy pregnancy and proper development of your future bub. Look for a formula with folate and iodine. Minerals such as zinc can be difficult to get in sufficient quantities in our diet so taking a multivitamin will help you to get everything in the right amounts.

Emotional support: With the majority of women now opting to have children later in life, a woman choosing to have a baby in her early twenties may feel a little alone if she doesn’t have a strong network of support around her. Find other women of similar ages embarking on parenthood.

Late 20’s to early 30’s
The most common age for women in Australia to have their first baby is during the late 20’s and early 30’s. While most women can easily conceive at this age, they have had more years to accumulate toxins that may affect their fertility. Some women may have chosen to devote their twenties to study and career where stress may also be a factor to consider.

Preconception care - how long? Three to six months
Depending on what the woman’s lifestyle was like in her twenties, a longer or shorter preconception care plan may be needed, with a longer one for those who had a crazy youth, ate whatever they wanted and exposed themselves to plenty of chemicals like hair dyes, pesticides, harsh cleaning products, perfumes, and plastic bottles...which is most of us! Having a preconception check-up with a doctor can identify any nutrient deficiencies like iron or iodine and to check that you aren’t carrying any infections that may affect the development of your baby.

Detoxify: Starting a cleanse that also involves detoxifying chemicals from the body and liver is a great place to start.

Stress support: Stress can affect fertility and upset the delicate hormonal balance that is the female reproductive cycle. Identifying stress and stressful triggers and then putting into place strategies to help you manage challenging times will help to bring you one step closer to a calm pregnancy.

Late 30’s and 40’s
As women nudge 40, fertility decreases and it can be more difficult for some women to conceive naturally. However conception is still possible and following a specific preconception plan may help.

Preconception care - how long? Six months
Similarly to the late 20’s and early 30’s, a preconception care plan for the late 30’s and 40’s should involve visiting a doctor for a preconception check up. A detox is also a great idea with a special focus on the liver to assist in the clearance of residual toxins that have accumulated throughout life.

Post-Pill hormonal issues: Many women in this age group may have been on the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) throughout part or all of their reproductive life. It can take several months for a woman’s natural cycle to return after ceasing the OCP, but if it takes longer consider seeking the support of a healthcare professional who may be able to help regulate your hormones.

Supplements: A preconception multivitamin is a must for women trying for a baby later in life. The OCP may contribute to some nutritional deficiencies that may ultimately affect conception. The doctor’s check up may have identified low levels of some nutrients, such as iron, which should be addressed before you conceive, remembering that it can take some time for the levels to become optimal.

Fatigue remedies: A busy career, relationship challenges and life in general can wear down the energy reserves. It’s important to go into motherhood with vitality and energy so prioritising rest, time out and relaxation will ensure the tank is filled up. Herbal medicine recommended by a naturopath may help lift your vitality, but don’t forget the energy boosting effects of exercise and fresh antioxidant-rich foods.

References available on request