Wondering when’s the best time to become a mother?
There isn’t one!
I kid, but in all seriousness, there is no perfect time to start a family. No one can ever be completely prepared to bring another life into the world.
You have to just take a leap and see where life takes you.
But, here are some stats that might help you gauge when to start that journey.
The Average Age
The average age for a first time mom in the United States is 26 (and 31 for men).
This average age has changed overtime, with both men and women becoming parents later and later in life.
Other areas of the world have even higher average ages. The UK and the Netherlands have a median age closer to 30, for example.
So, why the change?
This is due in part by better contraception and the advent of IUD’s, better sexual education, and advances in medicine which prolong the fertility window for women.
There has also been a huge shift in cultural beliefs on the roles of women since the ’60s and ’70s when the average age for a first pregnancy was just 21 years old.
Women now have more opportunities outside the home with more equality and less shame.
Still, the average age for a first time mom does vary, depending on socioeconomic status, education and where you live.
How old is too old?
That depends!
Every woman’s circumstances and body are different. The maternal window will not be the same from mother to mother.
The oldest woman to naturally conceive was 59 years old, but doctors tend to caution pregnancy, starting at age 35.
Speak with your doctor to find out what’s best for you and follow your own intuition.
Where do I start?
No matter when you decide to become a mother, it will be an incredible journey.
If you’re not sure where to start, try these 3 amazing first time mom books and my favorite baby registry checklist essentials.
And when you’re further along in your journey, you’ll want to know everything you can about first time mom labor and being a first time mom!