Becoming a mom later in life has its advantages and disadvantages. The number of women that are now choosing to have a baby in her 50’s is gaining in popularity. Having a baby at this age has a different outcome than a young mother, both mentally and physically.
A women having a baby in her 50’s has a higher risk of health problems. An older mother is at a higher risk for preeclampsia, and a women having a baby in their 50’s has an 80% higher risk rate of having the baby C-section. High blood pressure and weight issues are common concerns for an older mom.
Bouncing back after pregnancy takes more effort for an older mom. Even if you are in great shape, the fact remains you are still in your 50’s. Pregnancy weight gain and the ability for an older mother’s body to bounce back is going to be harder. It will take greater effort to lose the baby weight and get back into shape. A younger mom can usually bounce back within weeks, and often times with little effort.
A baby is at higher risk for birth defects. A women having a baby later in life has a greater chance of having a baby with disabilities and birth defects, with Down Syndrome being the most common. An older mother also has a higher rate of miscarriages.
Maturity is a plus for becoming a mother in her 50’s. An older mom has wisdom and experience that a younger mom doesn’t. A younger mom is use to a carefree life and only worried about taking care of herself, and hasn’t had the life experience of an older mom. This can make having a baby at a younger age more over whelming for a young mom. A disadvantage of being an older mom is being in the company of younger moms. Being and older mom can sometimes be uncomfortable for you and your child when going to the child’s events. It sometimes makes it harder to fit in with mothers and friend’s mother that are younger.
An older mom usually is financially stable. An older mom in her 50’s is usually more financially stable and has an established career. Having financial stability will take great pressures off you and the already enormous task facing you. A young mom usually has a much greater financial burden, and that added to the pressure of being a new mom can be overwhelming. The amount of money needed to have and take care of a baby can be astronomical. Not having this pressure can help immensely when dealing with all the pressures that come with being a mom.
For more information on the disadvantages and advantages of being a mom in her 50’s go to www.parents.com, www.all4women.co.za, www.more.com.
