I remember reading a text book when I was a kid which stated that ʺwomen over 40 were more than likely to have a child who was mentally handicapped.ʺ This really scared me and always made me feel like I was in a race against the clock to have a baby.
But, as things have turned out so far, I am perfectly content being childless in my 40s. Trust me, my husband, dog, house and career keep me plenty busy.
However, today there are some really incredible high-profile women who have decided to have a child later in life. These fantastic women over 40 are risk-takers in their careers and in love.
The following celebrity moms all had their babies after 40. These fabulous after-40 moms include:
• Kelly Preston, 48
• Celine Dion, 42
• Halle Berry, 42
• Julianne Moore, 42
• Tina Fey, 41
• Salma Hayek, 41
• Uma Thurman, 41, due late summer of 2012
• Mariah Carey, 40
• Jennifer Connelly, 40
• Nicole Kidman, 40
As we all know, there are risks to having a child later in life. Medical experts put you in the high-risk category if you have a child after 35.
Some of those risks may include the following:
• Risk of cancer
• The risk to your heart
• Gestational diabetes
• Higher C-section rate
• Risk of placenta problems
• Risk to your baby
But, what about the upside to having a child in your 40s?
According to Dr. Nancy B. Irwin, doctor of clinical psychology and author of You-Turn: Changing Direction in Midlife, ʺmotherhood past age 40 has increased 241 percent between 1976 and 1996.ʺ
With this increase Dr. Irwin sees many psychological benefits to children born with moms over 40. Moms in their 40s have a different perspective than moms in their 20s.
Some of those benefits of parenting at 40 plus may include:
• We have greater emotional stability
• We are more confident about the parenting choice
• We have more patience
• We have greater financial security
• We have more wisdom
• The natural narcissism of youth wanes with age
• We understand the importance of health and fitness
• We understand our purpose
Dr. Irwin stated in the FlowerPowerMom.com interview, ʺHaving children later may actually increase the mother’s longevity. Her desire to have a longer relationship with her children and grandchildren can inspire healthier habits and a more positive mindset about aging.ʺ
Dr. Irwin continued to state, ʺMost midlifers are past the dictates of hormones and can be more responsible. As with the longevity factor mentioned above, some studies have shown that later childbirth can extend the functionality of the reproduction organs as well. Most older mothers are comfortable with their sexuality, and ready for the responsibility of childrearing. They know what is important and what is fulfilling.ʺ
Forty is definitely the new twenty!
References:
Allen, R. 10 Celebrity Moms Pregnant Over 40 | Celebrity Baby Scoop. Celebrity Baby Scoop | News, Photos and Style Trends of Celebrity Babies. Retrieved April 1, 2012, from
http://www.celebritybabyscoop.com/2012/02/21/10-celebrity-moms-pregnant-over-40
Babies After 40: The Hidden Health Risks of Mid-Life Pregnancy - Family - Health.com. Health.com: Health News, Wellness, and Medical Information. Retrieved April 1, 2012, from http://www.health.com/health/article/0,,20411699,00.html
Irwin, D. N. Changing Direction in Midlife – Flower Power Mom. Flower Power Mom. Retrieved April 1, 2012, from
http://flowerpowermom.com/changing-direction-in-midlife
LaLiberte, A. The Pros and Cons of Later Life Motherhood. Dr. Oz. Retrieved April 1, 2012, from www.doctoroz.com/videos/pros-and-cons-later-life-motherhood?page=2#copy
Reviewed April 2, 2012
by Michele Blacksberg
Edited by Jody Smith