Too old for a baby?

[Elle2018]

I’m a mum, my youngest is 12, I’m 43. I’m also single. I’ve never thought about having any more kids mainly because I’ve not had to, but the subject came up during a conversation with a guy on a dating site and it got me thinking whether it is something I’d be willing (and able) to do again. Is there anyone here who has become a mum again after thinking they were done? How old is too old? Does anyone have old parents and if so how did it affect you growing up? I’d love people’s thoughts on it

I wouldn't have had children beyond mid 30s. Ideally 35, but maybe up to 37/38. Not to do with how old I'd be, more to do with health outcomes and the fertility issues I've witnessed in women older than that, and so there's time for a sibling. Fortunately I was done already before that

There are good and bad sides, surely. I was 38 with my first (and only) and I definitely worry a lot less than my younger mum friends - they don't seem to have the confidence in their own abilities and panic over every little thing.

Personally I don't think it matters that much if you're 60 when your child is 20 as 60 is no age these days.

But of course health etc is a worry.

I had my first at 41 and second at 48. Not naturally in either case. I dont think age has been as much of an issue as obesity tbh. I have put on a lot of weight during Covid for various reasons and I have definitely noticed the impact on my energy levels. I think if you keep yourself fit, a child is ok at any age.

That said, personally I wouldn't want to have embarked on a second family at that age. I had my 20s and 30s child-free. If I had had kids then I would have wanted my 40s or 50s to catch up on travel/hobbies etc. Spending almost your entire adult life as a parent of youngish children isn't that appealing.

It is becoming commoner though. I know several friends round my age with similar aged children (I am probably the oldest with a 3yo admittedly).