anyone else 42 and wanting another baby?

[misslongstocking]

I'm 42 and have 3 lovely children under 10.We felt our family was complete but lately I've been feeling broody,maybe as my child-rearing years are coming to an end!
My DH is looking forward to life without babies/toddlers & getting some sleep! He is sensible in terms of finances/car seat arrangements/bedrooms and I know what he means...
Anyway,after a recent careless 'fumble'(with husband!)the thought of another pregnancy + labour,also all of above practical reasons not to have more children - I took emergency contraception(DH said 'it's up to you',) but immediately regretted it.
I feel sad about it all,but perhaps should count my blessings.Anyone else in similar situation?

hello miss long not but I might be as it took me 4 years to get to this stage (19 weeks) and will probably want another (fingers crossed this all goes well) so could be joining you in the 40's. Not a problem is it age wise I mean? I think do what your heart desires as long as you can both agree!

I have 4 DSs; my first when i was 37, my last at 43.
I also had 4 MMCs and various pregnancy complications and have a genetic problem that predisposes me to certain trisomies.
I very much had the feeling that I am 'pushing my luck', but could not help myself . And they are all healthy.

Your DH is of course right on a purely practical front: if you have another baby you throw the whole family back to the babystage.
You'll have different age groups to entertain and take places.
You will never have a 'normal' car again .
Biology is what it is and yes, the risks are higher when you are older. However, even a 1:4 risk of something happening is still a 3:4 risk of it NOT happening - that was my reasoning and I got away with it.

I think you and your DH need to have a very open chat about it. It is not just 'up to you'. Or him. It is up to you as a couple. Make a decision together and and make your peace with whatever you decide.
I have to be honest and say I am stretched to the limit of my physical, emotional and practical limits at times, but of course love my brood (almost 9, 8, 4, 2). And am rather proud of having got as far as I am without strangling any one of them.

Here they are, the fabulous 40+ ladies

Thank you for taking the time to post messages!
Surfmama - congratulations on your pregnancy, (it took me a while to conceive 1st also, but had no problems after that!)
PacificDogwood - thanks for sharing your experiences ,made me think...we already have 7-seater car ...
Still not sure what we'll do ,DH still not keen (though feel he could come round to the idea,with a little persuasion..) - felt so gutted having taken morning after pill (what if??? might have had an 'accidental' pregnancy - without having to make a decision! ) also, surprised how upset I felt having taken it ,looking at it from an ethical point of view...(another story)..I almost want to make up for the one that may have been lost!
But thanks for your support xx