Heavily-pregnant Meghan Markle will be under ‘increased care’ now because she’s a ‘geriatric’ mum, midwife claims
MEGHAN Markle is eagerly awaiting the arrival of Baby Sussex with “increased care” due to her age, a midwife has claimed At 37, experts have indicated that, as a first-time “geriatric” mum, the Duchess of Sussex will be very closely monitored by her medical team to prevent any complications arising during labour. Women in their late […]
MEGHAN Markle is eagerly awaiting the arrival of Baby Sussex with “increased care” due to her age, a midwife has claimed
At 37, experts have indicated that, as a first-time “geriatric” mum, the Duchess of Sussex will be very closely monitored by her medical team to prevent any complications arising during labour.
Women in their late thirties tend to go full-term without any problems during pregnancy, but those aged 40 and over may be advised to opt for early induction ahead of their due date.
Ultimately it’s the mother’s choice whether to have her labour induced or not, as Liz Halliday, Deputy Head of Midwifery at Private Midwives told Fabulous Digital: “At 37 years old, The Duchess of Sussex appears to be fit and healthy, with good access to antenatal care.
“Although The Duchess of Sussex may have some very slightly increased risk factors due to her age, induction of labour carries risks itself and these should be fully discussed as part of balanced discussion.”
Liz added: “She is likely to have been offered increased care in these last weeks and days of her pregnancy, possibly including scans to confirm the well-being of her baby.”
The deputy head midwife explained that Meghan’s induction options if she goes past her due date will have been discussed with her.
“That includes evidence around any increased risks that she might have with regards to her health, her history and any other medical factors.”
There’s little evidence to show that a woman’s due date is 40 weeks, with it more likely being between 37 and 42 weeks, as Liz said: “Evidence shows that the most likely time for a first time mother to go into spontaneous labour is around 41 weeks and 2 days.”
What is a geriatric mum?
A pregnancy that occurs when a person is 35 years or older is known as an advanced maternal age pregnancy. In the medical world, it’s also sometimes known as a “geriatric pregnancy.”
Though it’s perfectly possible to have a healthy pregnancy and baby after your 35th birthday, there are some risks associated with giving birth at a later age.
These include a low birth weight, higher risk of Downs syndrome and preeclampsia, and increased risk of complications during delivery.
News that Meghan has already given birth went into overdrive this weekend as Prince Harry was spotted at the London Marathon on Sunday handing out medals and supporting runners.
However bookies have closed betting on the Duchess’ delivery date, suggesting she might not give birth until May.
Meghan has been focusing on her taking care of herself in her last days of pregnancy staying close to home with her mum, Doria Ragland, by her side at Frogmore Cottage, Windsor.
A royal source said: “It won’t be long now. Meghan’s really excited. Of course she’s nervous like any first-time mum but she and Harry can’t wait.”
“She’s been preparing for the birth – she wants it to be as natural as possible – and so has been practising hypnobirthing and breathing techniques with Harry.
“It’s been a huge support having her mum by her side and now she’s just getting as much rest as she can.”
The Sun understands that Meghan wants to stay at home for as long as possible once she goes into labour, but understands that the safest environment is a hospital.
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