When actor Hilary Swank announced her pregnancy at age 52, the internet's reaction was swift and critical. Social media users labeled the decision "irresponsible" and "selfish." However, Swank's simple reply to a fan, "It can!" offered encouragement to those considering motherhood later in life.
This sentiment resonates with many women who, like the author of this piece, strategically plan to have children later. For first-generation college students and career-focused individuals, the desire to achieve educational and financial stability often precedes starting a family. The author pursued higher education, built a decade of public health experience, and is now working on a doctorate, all while facing well-meaning but stinging advice to not wait too long.
The societal pressure to adhere to a specific timeline for motherhood is palpable. Friends who started families earlier often remark on how young they will be when their children leave home, a comment that, while not intended as criticism, can imply that those waiting are missing the "right time."
Shifting Demographics in Motherhood
Contrary to popular perception, a growing number of women are indeed choosing to have children in their late 30s and 40s. A 2025 CDC report indicated that for the first time in U.S. history, more babies were born to women aged 40 and older than to teenagers. This trend is accompanied by a significant decline in teen births since 1990, a public health success attributed to education and access to contraception. Simultaneously, births to women over 40 have nearly tripled.
This shift reflects greater reproductive autonomy, aided by technologies like egg freezing and assisted reproductive technologies. Despite this progress, women opting for later motherhood often face judgment.
Medical Terminology and Its Impact
In medical contexts, pregnancies after age 35 are classified as "advanced maternal age," a term that some find stigmatizing. While fertility naturally declines with age and certain complications become more likely, a birthday alone should not dictate medical care. Leading with labels like "advanced maternal age" can lead to interventions that are not medically necessary, particularly for Black women, who already face disproportionately higher maternal mortality rates.
The author emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to focus on the individual woman rather than solely her age, offering clear explanations of risks and making decisions collaboratively. Birth workers are encouraged to continue empowering women, especially Black mothers, to advocate for themselves during pregnancy and childbirth.
Redefining the Narrative
Celebrities like Janet Jackson, Eva Mendes, and Eva Longoria have spoken positively about their experiences with later-life motherhood, highlighting increased wisdom, patience, and financial stability. While acknowledging that celebrities often have more resources, the core message remains: support, preparation, and individualized care are crucial for all women choosing this path.
The author calls for friends and family to move beyond the pressure of a ticking biological clock and instead support women's reproductive choices. The narrative that women must have children in their 20s is being challenged. For many, waiting to have children is not a failure to plan, but the plan itself, and it deserves respect. $$IMAGE1##