My girlfriend is pregnant at 42. How can we make sure to reduce risks of birth defects?

[Anonymous]

We weren't planning on it and I thought she was almost infertile. She intends to keep the baby and I do as well, but I'm worried about the higher risks of birth defects and health issues.
What can I do? This is her first pregnancy, and while I've had a child from another woman I wasn't that worried because she was in a more 'conventional' age. Naturally, despite my doubts, I'll recognize the baby and wish for her to be happy.

[Anonymous]

Doctors, fertility specialists, prenatal vitamins and supplements (ones that contain 0.4 milligrams of folic acid — prevents certain birth defects), maintain healthy weight and diet of variety of foods
also ask the doctors for ultrasound tests etc to screen for birth defects. frequent doctor visits. good luck!

[Asker]

Thank you!

[lonestar_01]

I honestly really wouldn't know. Best bet would be speak to a doctor, as it becomes increasingly hard to produce a child with minimal defect risks once a woman gets over 40. Make an appointment with one and get it checked out, raise all your concerns there.

[OlderAndWiser]

Genetic testing and counselling during the pregnancy.

[Celtero]

It's not THAT high of a chance and usually there is nothing you can do, it's just that the genetic material that was in her egg has deteriorated slightly.

[NathanDavis]

to really make sure... go to the professionals


don't come here to G@G... lmao