How old is too old?

[mumnosbest]

Following another thread I'm on about whether to try for number 3 or not, I got to thinking if I were to wait, how long would I leave it. I'm just 30 (ok nearly 31) but wouldn't like to go beyond 40. One reason is my age but also the age gap between my other 2 DC. How old were you/would you be before having your last baby?

I'm 40 this year and desparately trying for my first (which is looking unlikely).

I think everyone's situation is different and only you can decide. I know some people who have them very close together in age and other people at the opposite extreme - have many years between them. Neither of them appear to have any major issues either way

Ooh exciting times for you (turning a little green). Why unlikely?
I don't mind the age gap, my 2 are v.close, so I think I'd like my third with a gap, so it could be special just for being the baby (I know it would be special anyway. I had a miscarriage in between and do't catch on too quickly so worry it might get harder/riskier with age.

because I've been told that my chances of conceiving are practically zero.

good luck

I'm just about to turn 30, so just a year younger than you Mumnosbest. My youngest is 2.5 and although I would love a third eventually, I just don't feel the time is right at the minute . I plan to wait until DD starts school before trying, so I can concentrate on the baby, would be just to hectic right now. How old is your youngest?

Had my 2nd at 30 and my 9th at almost 44

Thanks eleveld and ignore proffessionals! It only takes that 1 lucky little swimmer and an egg. How many women are told it can't happen then end up pg. My friends mum adopted twice then had my friend and brother accidentally so good luck!!!

Hi pinkmagic
I've got a 4yr old and 18 month old. I also worry that my career wont wait for ever, I'll have to get back to it one day!

Had my first 2 and 30 and 31, and third at 40. My grandmother (now 95) was born when her mother was 46 - which back in 1913 was a bit of a surprise I think!

I bet that was a bit of a surprise. Another lady I know is 45 and just had twins, 22 years after her last child. That's all reassuring though.

Last baby?

My first was at 42 my 2nd at 43.

There is no ideal age - if you are ovulating then you are able to have babies.

Eleveld - after years of trying I had also been told at 40 that my chance of conceiving was practicallly zero

When you stop laying eggs I reckon.

Sorry, forgot to say: I am 41 and expecting child 4. There will be a 12 year gap between numbers 3 & 4, and a 16yr gap between child 1 and child 4. We had the first 3 in 4 years and didn't really had the energy to have another until the youngest was 5.

'Last baby' so far or planned to be last unless you change your mind.

Congrats duchesse, obviously 3 or even 4 aren't too many for you. I know I tear my hair out with 2 sometimes but would still love a 3rd

Had my first at 41 and my second at 43 (2 months off 44). I had no idea if I would have problems or even get pg, but actually no probs at all and got pg really without trying very much at all.