September is NICU Awareness Month, and we connected with Lexi Hill, MD, FACOG, to discuss pregnancy and its potential risks- beyond age 35. Dr Lexi is a board-certified OB/GYN and Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist who is bridging the gap between patients and physicians.
Driven by her passion for helping women navigate pregnancy with confidence, Dr. Lexi provides education via social media, YouTube, and her exclusive modules for pregnant individuals.
For instance, her “Pregnancy Health & Nutrition Course” guides women through a healthy pregnancy with helpful videos, resources, and links. Topics include choosing a prenatal vitamin, folate & folic acid insights, breech baby scenarios, and information on Down syndrome screening. Use coupon code LIFESTYLE for free access for one year.
Here are 5 of the most common questions Dr. Lexi is asked:
Should I be worried about getting pregnant at/after 35?
It is often more difficult to get pregnant at age 35+ as our eggs diminish in quantity and quality. Additionally, pregnancies at this age face elevated risks of developing high blood pressure or diabetes, needing a cesarean delivery, and having a child with chromosomal abnormalities.
At age 35+, do I have to have IVF?
No, but it could be more difficult to conceive naturally. When I turned 36, someone advised me to "go freeze my eggs,” which is not an easy or cheap process. Since we lose eggs as we age, IVF can assist with becoming pregnant and evaluating a healthy embryo before it’s implanted. An IVF pregnancy still has risks, and a consultation with a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist is recommended.
What should I know about the NICU?
NICU stands for Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Premature babies often need time in the NICU for more intense medical attention. Full-term babies might also visit the NICU if there’s fluid in their lungs, breathing difficulties, or issues with low blood sugars.
How can your services help during my later-in-life pregnancy journey?
As a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist, I have specific training in managing patients that have medical issues during pregnancy. As we age, our list of medical issues increases, and the physiologic stresses require specialized care.
Licensed in 21 states, book a telehealth consultation with Dr. Lexi to address your worries about a future pregnancy, prior pregnancy trauma, or issues with your current pregnancy.
drlexihill.com, IG @drlexihill