How old is too old to have a baby??

moanymoany

It is true that women have had babies well into their 40's. This is the same in my family - however, the women concerned had started in their early to mid 20's. Their reproductive systems turned out children on a regular basis. To have a first child at that age was unusual.

The way that nature means us to reproduce is to start having babies young. We have given ourselves the ability to postpone this, but along with this comes difficulties.

When I married in the 1960's, it was unusual for people to live together. It was also unusual for people to stay single. Most married, after two years they had their first child. There was not a lot of leeway in most social communities.

There is much more freedom now. When I look back, at 22 we would seem quite 'old' when compared with 27 year olds now. Most of our friends had had their families by the time they were 30. On the one hand we didn't have as much 'fun' as people now have into their 30's. Clubbing, holidays, gap-years, buying stuff, cars... But, most of us did have our families and we got our freedom back in our late 40's, early 50's. I have to say I would dread having a 'Kevin and Perry' teenager in my 50's. :eek:

skintbutsmiling01

Atomised wrote: »

as long as you haven't gone through "the change" becoming pregnant is natural

Sadly, not for some.

northantsandy

Hey Baslicat7 hope you're okay - how's the househunting? Me and the OH have just started looking too. Apparently a room large enough for a Space Invaders and a pool table isn't priority!

Anyway, back on topic! My OH's parents were late 40's when they had her.....and as for age difference, my dad is 8 years older than my mom and it's their Ruby Anniversay this year!

My ex-wife gave me a great son, who was unplanned, but I'd rather chew my own arm off than have to be with her. Being a weekend dad sucks, so my four penneth is that as long as you're in a strong relationship then age is irrelevant and if having a kid is the right thing for both of you then the time is right....until then enjoy your lives together....and when you're both sure go for it, but it must be mutual...

My OH is 35, I am 38 (bl**dy hell when did that happen! I could still play cricket for England, I could!!!!!) and we've discussed the having kids thing, especially as her parents were in their late 40's, so who knows. Whether I could face doing the Uni run in my 60's is another matter! lol

If he's the one then age. money and biology will find a way hun!

Debt_Free_Dreamer

My mom had me at 30 and with all my mates mom's having them at 15, 16, 17 etc., I thought my parents were OLD!.

My youngest daughter is 1, she was born at Christmas when I was 38. I was 34 when my first was born. I bet they will think I am really old when they are teenagers.

My hubby would still like another one.

If you are concerned about declining fertility, you could always take one of those tests which tells you your levels. However, getting pregnant the second time did take a lot longer and I also had a miscarriage between my first and second born. You spend all those years trying not to get pregnant and when you eventually want to, it does not happen as fast as you think it will.

On a final note, have them when you are both ready. They are fantastic, but they take over your life. (what life!)

Best wishes

Amanda