by Alisha from Illinois
"You are with child," pregnant at 37 years old. I thought, what the heck??? Didn't have a period for a year, thought I was in menopause. Some might think 37 is young to go through menopause, but my mom was 42 by the time she was done with menopause, so I thought I was safe... Guess I messed up again.
Sick every day the whole pregnancy. Had COVID in my third trimester, and due to all the coughing I had to wear pads, because I would pee... Anyways, it was the hardest pregnancy I went through, but the easiest labor out of 4, with her being my only preemie. On top of all that, I craved cigarettes, I wasn't even a smoker, weird! After Airiahsyn was born I didn't have a desire to smoke anymore, thank goodness...
At 33 weeks, I was referred to a specialist, due to my placenta being too big, low amniotic fluid, and baby was small for gestational age. The specialist suggested the complications were due to having COVID while I was pregnant.
I had to start attending 3 doctor appointments a week. At my next specialist appointment, my amniotic fluid was dangerously low, and I was admitted to the hospital. "Is your car seat in the car?" the doctor asked. “We are going to induce you!” Feeling like I had no more room to grow, I was relieved!
Let's do this! After lots of cramps, pain, and an epidural...
On November 10th, 2020 at 10:09 am a preemie was born. Airiahsyn Eleanoriah Mae Bouvet, weighed 4 pounds, 14.5 ounces and was 17.5 inches long.
Despite all the pregnancy complications, my age, and having COVID, a perfect, beautiful, and healthy baby girl was born. I survived a pregnancy in my 30s, but don't recommend it. In your 30s your body is different than in your 20s.
Make a note to self, having kids while you're in your 20s is recommended!
About Alisha
My name is Alisha Horan, 38 year old mother of 4, from IL. I have 2 boys and 2 girls, ranging in age from 0-17 years old... What a range, so lots of experience with children. Also, I did home daycare for 3 years.
Want more information on pregnancy self care? wichealth.org has a free online lesson called Eat Well for a Healthy Pregnancy. Find it on wichealth.org the New and Expecting Parents category!
