Starting Late

[tad1969]

:confused: Have any of you had your first child when you were over 40? How crazy did it turn your life? Do you regret it? Do you feel like you lost something? Am I selfish for asking these questions?

[Carly's Mommy]

I don't think you're selfish for asking these questions at all.

My sister-in-law had my nephew, their first and only child, when she was 40. It definitely changed their lives, but for the better. My SIL is now 45 and she and her husband have tried many times for another baby but unfortunately she's just had a series of miscarriages. They finally decided to give up their dream of having another biological baby, but now they are thinking about adoption.

My husband and I had our first and only baby last year when I was 32. We had been married for 8 1/2 years and together for a total of 11 1/2 years. Luckily, it didn't take me long to get pregnant once we started trying. I can honestly say that after being together for so long and being pretty set in our ways that it was a huge adjustment, but it was really, really worth it. Neither one of us can really remember life before our daughter was born. I don't feel like I've lost anything at all. Actually, I feel like I've gained so much more. It's kind of hard to explain, but basically, I just feel like there is more of a purpose to my life now.

It's personal choice. There are many advantages to having a baby when you are young as well as having one later in life. You really need to sit down and think about it. On one hand, you don't want to have a baby just because it's what everyone does and you're expected to. On the other hand, you don't want to let that chance slip by if you really want a baby.

Hope this helps you out a little and good luck with whatever decision you make. :)

[Zoneey]

We tried for too long to have a child. And at 40 decided to adopt. We were placed with a child at 41. I am glad I am older and wiser, but I wish I had the energy. 10 years later and I think my daughter is keeping young.

[mom2fussbudgets]

I don't think you're selfish for asking these questions at all.

My sister-in-law had my nephew, their first and only child, when she was 40. It definitely changed their lives, but for the better. My SIL is now 45 and she and her husband have tried many times for another baby but unfortunately she's just had a series of miscarriages. They finally decided to give up their dream of having another biological baby, but now they are thinking about adoption.

My husband and I had our first and only baby last year when I was 32. We had been married for 8 1/2 years and together for a total of 11 1/2 years. Luckily, it didn't take me long to get pregnant once we started trying. I can honestly say that after being together for so long and being pretty set in our ways that it was a huge adjustment, but it was really, really worth it. Neither one of us can really remember life before our daughter was born. I don't feel like I've lost anything at all. Actually, I feel like I've gained so much more. It's kind of hard to explain, but basically, I just feel like there is more of a purpose to my life now.

It's personal choice. There are many advantages to having a baby when you are young as well as having one later in life. You really need to sit down and think about it. On one hand, you don't want to have a baby just because it's what everyone does and you're expected to. On the other hand, you don't want to let that chance slip by if you really want a baby.

Hope this helps you out a little and good luck with whatever decision you make. :)

What an honest and thoughtful post! :)

I had my first child when I was 30, after being married for seven years. I completely agree with what Carly's mommy said about not remembering what life was like before kids. My children have enriched my life, and I can't imagine not having them.

I also agree with this:

It's personal choice. There are many advantages to having a baby when you are young as well as having one later in life. You really need to sit down and think about it. On one hand, you don't want to have a baby just because it's what everyone does and you're expected to. On the other hand, you don't want to let that chance slip by if you really want a baby.

Personally, I can't imagine using age as a reason to hold me back. As long as you're healthy, and you understand all of the risks, then I say go for it!