As the author of 18 books on women’s and baby’s health, Dr. Glade Curtis is a national authority on pregnancy. A new revised edition of “Your Pregnancy: After 35” is the newest addition to the authoritative “Your Pregnancy: Week by Week” series, co-authored by Consumer and Family Studies expert Judith Schuler. The updates are geared toward an ever-increasing proportion of women who choose to have children in their mid-30s and beyond.
What did you consider when updating this book?
I think it’s critical when people want information about their health and pregnancy, that the information is up to date. I looked at every part of it to add new information, including how the science has changed. I think one of the more exciting areas for this population of pregnant women is all of the things we’re learning about genetics and genetic counseling.
What are the best parts about pregnancy at this age?
They’re more informed, and they’re more aware of potential risks and problems. They have taken good care of themselves – if you compare that to an 18-year-old who wasn’t trying to get pregnant, then it becomes clear that we don’t need to be scared to death of these pregnancies.
What do women find most useful about this book?
The most important thing is being armed with accurate information so that when they visit their doctors they can ask the appropriate questions. The other thing is reassurance. For any woman and any couple, being pregnant is scary — the book reassures women that these are normal things that are happening.
What are some of the field’s most important new medical advances?
One of the most exciting advances is all that has happened in ultrasound technology. Ultrasound has gotten so good, and there are so many things we can do to evaluate the baby and help with the pregnancy.
What should expectant couples keep in mind during a pregnancy?
I think it’s always important to remember to enjoy the miracle of birth. Enjoy the excitement, the fun, and the miracle of having a baby.
