Is 43 too old for a baby

Cissi

I haven't read the whole thread, but I would say that no, it isn't too old if you both want this, however if you do decide that you want to go ahead and try, then I wouldn't hang about! Be warned that your chances of a first pregnancy at this age are very low.

The vast majority of stories that you hear of women who got pregnant at a similar age are either not first pregnancies (and fertility-wise that puts them in a completely different category to you) or the babies were conceived by IVF, most of them by donor egg. When you read about x y or z celebrity who had a baby aged 50, you can be sure that that was using a younger woman's eggs! Nothing wrong with that of course - one of my closest friends is expecting donor twins at the age of 45 - but you need to be prepared for the idea that this may be your only chance of conceiving, certainly if you wait any longer before making a decision.

VanyaHargreeves

I would go for it. If you want a child, then of course go for it. I wouldn't leave it too much longer though.

Aliss08

I just want to thank all of you that have replied. I'm overwhelmed by the sheer number of, mainly positive and very encouraging, responses. I do realise that time isn't on our side and that if we were lucky enough to conceive then it really will be a blessing. Thank you all so much once again. I knew you were all good people. To those also trying for a baby, please don't give hope, life is full of surprises.

born_blonde

I had my son when I was 44, he is now 8 and yes it's hard work but I'm no more tired than some of the other Mum's on the school run . I had lots of tests when I was pregnant including CVS because of the risk of Downs so think through the implications of that. I would say that now I am very conscious of people thinking I'm his Gran so I try harder!
Good luck.

Katie-Kat-Kins

Why not try and have two, that way your child will always have some close family and that makes a huge difference!

My mum was the child of older parents, and sadly lost one parent at 21 and another at 30, but was very lucky to have the support of two wonderful siblings.

squirrelchops

My Mum had me at 43 with a 12 and 14 year gap between me and older brothers.

She was in excellent health and I think as i wasn't her first her body was more prepared for it than if I had been her first.

I, however have decided I do not want to be a 40 + year old Mum if at all possible. I know it is different nowadays with lots of people having children older but I remember how hard I found it with people thinking Mum was my Gran for example.

ladybez

I'd say go for it. I had twins at 42, my other children being 6 and 13 at the time, yes it has been tiring at times but I love them all dearly and would not be without any of them. Because they were twins I could not have cvs or any screening and had to accept that whatever will be will be, they are both happy healthy "normal" boys

kindofagilr

I say go for it, its not too old at all!

My boss at work had a baby at 46

xxlaurissaxx

I say go for it. My mum had my little sister at 43 and my mum and little sister (now 15) are fine. xx

Aliss08

Sadly that isn't always the case. Both my husband and I have lost our siblings hence now we are alone without parents either.

It's so reassuring to hear from those who have had healthy children later in life and to know how much joy they bring. You are all an inspiration.