Society has put an unreasonable amount of pressure on women to reproduce as soon as they reach childbearing age. In some cultures, girls may even be peddled off into forced and arranged marriages as soon as they get their first period.
The same pressure is surprisingly absent for men, who are not bound by the same biological limitations that prevent them from having children past a certain age.
But times are changing. More and more women are putting themselves as first priority over starting a family. Many may withhold marriage and children until they have achieved success within their careers.
For a majority of these women, settling down no longer has the same appeal as it once did. But for others, having babies and starting a family has always been part of the plan.
If you’re a prospective mother who society may deem as ‘older’, here’s more reasons why you should not listen to the naysayers.
You’re More Financially Stable
Financial security is such an important, but often overlooked part, about parenthood. Moreover, parents who constantly worry about money can often imprint their anxiety onto their children.
The baby is then continually exposed to this stressful environment, which is not the most conducive environment for their mental and physical development.
What’s worse, you may end up depriving your little one of all the magic and wonder of childhood, the toys, the books, the treats, just so you can make next month’s rent.
So older mothers who have high-paying, established careers will definitely not face this problem. Allowing their kids to thrive in all the ways they should.
Your Child Will be Smarter
There’s some compelling evidence that shows how children born to older mothers tend do better in school.
A study revealed that children born to mothers between the ages of 25 to 29 performed better in cognitive tests than those who were 10 years younger. This may also correlate back to the previous point.
Financially stable mothers are able to afford better education for their kids. Leading to better learning outcomes and higher IQ over all. Children born to older mothers also tend to be more mature, and use more advanced vocabulary.
You’re Better Prepared
Both emotionally and mentally. We often don’t take into account the emotional maturity that some young parents lack. When their child yells, they yell back.
But older parents may be wiser, calmer and far more equipped in dealing with temper tantrums and other growing pains. Moreover, women don’t reach full maturity until they’re 32 years old.
For men, it’s not until they’re way past their forties before they ‘wise up’. Talk about a late bloomer.
You Have a Healthier Brain
Hormones are a funny thing. In the case of late motherhood, they can actually be the proverbial fountain of youth that can help stave off the unpleasant effects of cognitive decline.
Getting pregnant in your late twenties can actually keep your brain young. Protecting you from dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions.
So, while your golden girlfriends may already be forgetting their names, you’ll probably stay as sharp as a tack.
You Live Longer
If you’re an older mum, you can look forward to longer sunset years because studies show that women who have babies at 35 are more likely to reach past their nineties.
If you think that you’re going to miss out on those precious moments just because you got pregnant in your late thirties, think again. You’re going to be there for all of your grandchildren’s birthdays, school recitals, and yes, even weddings.
It’s Never too Late
While experts don’t recommend having a baby too late, it’s generally okay, and may even be beneficial. Even if you’re in your late thirties, it’s never too late to start a family.
Late motherhood does come with many challenges though, especially when it comes to fertility. The most important thing is to control your stress levels, maintain a healthy diet, exercise and avoid alcohol and cigarettes. Then, you’ll hopefully have a baby in no time.
Delayed motherhood is still motherhood. And any child is lucky to have you in their lives.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!