Despite the risks, more women are strong enough to embrace late motherhood

Number of American women having sex for the first time mothers The increase continues after the age of 40; Birth rates increase by 4 percent between 2021 and 2022 for women aged 40-44 and by 12 percent for women aged 45 and over.

Lisa Weber exemplifies this trend. She gave birth to her son Blake naturally at the age of 50, becoming the hospital’s oldest mother to do so.

Reflecting on her unexpected pregnancy after experiencing perimenopause symptoms, Weber said, “It would be nice to have another child—it would be icing on the cake.”

Reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Tchalim attributes this trend to many factors, including financial considerations, relationship timing, and advances in fertility treatment. The average age of first-time mothers increased from 25.6 in 2011 to 27.3 in 2021.

However, as you get older, it becomes increasingly difficult to get pregnant. From the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Alicia Ogle states that women’s chances of getting pregnant naturally drop to five percent at 40, and to less than one percent at 45.

“The quantity and quality of eggs decreases significantly over time,” Ogle said. She recommends that women over 40 consult their fertility specialist three to six months after trying to get pregnant.

Brooke Glass, 41, underwent multiple in vitro fertilization treatments before giving birth to her son in 2020. “The emotional toll was huge, but finding the right doctor made all the difference,” Glass said.

Dr. Mary D’Alton warns of increased pregnancy risks for older mothers, including preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. But many women feel that their life experiences outweigh the challenges.

Noting that the wisdom and appreciation gained with age increases, Weber said, “I can now offer more to my youngest son than I can to my older children.”

Medical advances continue to expand the possibilities of subsequent pregnancy. Researchers are investigating techniques such as in vitro gametogenesis, potentially allowing women without viable eggs to become pregnant.

Despite the stigma around advanced maternal age, doctors emphasize personal choice in family planning. “Every woman’s journey to motherhood is unique,” ​​Tchalim said. “Age should not be the only determining factor.”

To consult later pregnancyexperts recommend:
– Comprehensive fertility testing
– Regular prenatal care
– Mental health support
– Financial planning for treatments
– Discussing pregnancy risks