I was nearing 35 when I welcomed my second child, and I vividly recall feeling anxious about approaching the label of “advanced maternal age,” or the even more daunting term – “geriatric pregnancy.” Honestly, is there a more dispiriting way to say your uterus is aging?
The reality is, many women are choosing to postpone motherhood for various reasons, whether it’s focusing on their careers, waiting to find the right partner, or simply wanting to enjoy life a bit longer. According to the CDC, for the first time in over thirty years, there are more women in their thirties giving birth than those in younger age groups.
While there are certain risks associated with becoming a mother later in life, it’s time we shift the narrative and stop instilling fear in women considering starting a family as they age. Instead, we should provide them with empowering insights about the journey ahead. So, let’s dive in!
We’ve all heard the alarming statistics regarding mothers of “advanced maternal age.” (Can we please find a more encouraging term?) Yes, older mothers may face a higher risk of infertility, premature birth, complications during pregnancy, and birth defects, but that doesn’t mean they are destined for these outcomes. Many of these risks can be managed with proper prenatal care.
As highlighted by The March of Dimes, women over 35 should consider pre-conception screening tests for potential birth defects, such as DNA or maternal blood screenings. Additionally, all mothers—regardless of age—should prioritize attending all prenatal appointments, getting necessary vaccinations, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and managing any existing health conditions. This isn’t complicated, right? Plus, older mothers often take these responsibilities seriously because they are empowered, wise women who prioritize their health and that of their unborn child.
But that’s just one of the many reasons being an older mother is fantastic. A 2016 study from Denmark revealed that older moms are often more patient than younger ones and raise children with fewer behavioral issues. The study of 4,741 mothers found that older motherhood was linked to less frequent use of verbal and physical punishments and resulted in children who displayed fewer social and emotional difficulties at ages 7 and 11. That’s pretty great!
Additionally, research from Sweden published in Population and Development Review suggests that despite the potential health risks associated with older mothers, their children tend to be taller, healthier, and better educated as they grow. The researchers noted that postponing childbirth, even until after 40, can lead to positive long-term outcomes for children. Wonderful news!
The benefits extend to older mothers as well. A study in Menopause, the journal of The North American Menopause Society, indicated that women who have children later in life often have increased longevity and better overall health. They found that older mothers had a higher likelihood of having longer telomeres, which are indicators of a longer life. In simpler terms, older moms tend to live longer!
So let’s embrace the journey of motherhood, regardless of age! Next time someone uses negative language regarding older moms, remind them that we’re here to stay, we’re great parents, and we’re thriving. Whether you’re a young mom or an older one, no one should have to justify their age when starting a family. It’s your body, your choice, and any judgment about that can be tossed aside.
For more insights on home insemination, check out our blog here. If you’re interested in artificial insemination, Make a Mom offers an excellent resource on the subject. You can also learn more about the process of in vitro fertilization here.
In summary, while the term ‘geriatric pregnancy’ may sound intimidating, it’s time to change the conversation. Older mothers can have fulfilling and healthy pregnancies, and their experiences can lead to wonderful outcomes for their children.