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Pregnant at 42

I just found out that i am pregnant, my boy friend is concerned about birth defects...... i know of potential risks, but i want to keep my baby..... I had my last period in early December, but don't remember the exaxt date. Is it likely that i will know how many weeks i am pregnant for. Also, how do i choose a good doctor to help me in my pregnancy being so old.
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377493 tn?1356502149
Hi and welcome!!  42 is not at all too old to be having a baby.  I just delivered a healthy boy 1 week before my 41st birthday.  Yes, our risk is somewhat increased, but as the others said, the odds are far greater that all will be just fine.  I cannot advise you on the best route to find a Dr. as I don't think it's quite the same here in Canada, but sounds like you got good advice there from the others.  Congrats on your pregnancy and good luck to you!!
Helpful - 0
1021834 tn?1379292300
My mom had me at 43.  I don't think there was much for testing back then.  Now its alot more advanced.  Still, I turned out fine.  Well, you'll have to take my word for that, I guess.  :)  I'm trying to conceive at 42 now and hope to do as well as she did.  Good luck!
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1143259 tn?1282963865
Congratulations. The ultrasound usually gives a pretty accurate account of just hwo far you are along. I have had similiar worries but through the post I feel somewhat less worried. I am 43 years old and 12.5 weeks pregnant. Consult with your obstetrician/gyn and he/she will consult you on information pertaining to risk factors and genetic testing. Wish you the best.
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1008869 tn?1283961257
Hi!  Congrats!

We are all AMA (Advanced Maternal Age) on this forum hun so you came to the right place!  And we all have the same concerns.

I am 41 and 7 months prego with a healthy child.

At our age we go through many tests that can scare the crap out of us but that is par for the course. Majority of babies born to 35+ women are totally healthy so don't let rumors/wives tales scare you.

Get referrels to a high risk OBGYN.

Congrats!
Helpful - 0
1006003 tn?1256227415
Hi and welcome!

First off, 42 is not incredibly old to be having a baby, so don't let anyone freak you out. Also, the odds of having a normal healthy baby far outweigh the odds of birth defects, at any age. Once you see a doctor they can give you more information, as assess what the risks are for you and your baby.

As far as finding a good doctor, I don't know where you are writing from, but the usual route is to see your usual family doctor to get the pregnancy confirmed, and then if you need special care due to your age or your health, they will refer you to a specialist in your area.

Let us know how things go!

Best wishes,
~Wendy
Helpful - 0
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