The decision to have children is one of the most significant choices that people make in their lives. In recent decades, there has been a trend of couples waiting until later in life to start families. While this may provide benefits such as financial stability and career opportunities, it can also present struggles and health risks for both women and men. As women age, the risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth increase. Women over the age of 35 are considered to have advanced maternal age, and their pregnancies are considered high-risk. This is because older women are more likely to experience complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and premature delivery. Additionally, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome increases as a woman’s age increases. Furthermore, older women may also have difficulty conceiving, as fertility declines with age. In vitro fertilization (IVF) may be an option, but it can be costly and may not always be successful. This can be emotionally and financially challenging for couples who are trying to conceive. 

From a feminist perspective, the decision to have children should always be a choice that is made freely and without pressure from societal expectations or gender roles. Unfortunately, women are often judged harshly for not having children or for delaying motherhood until later in life. Women are expected to prioritize their roles as caregivers and mothers, often at the expense of their careers and personal ambitions. The trend of couples waiting until later in life to start families can be seen as a step towards gender equality, as it allows women to pursue their education and career goals before becoming mothers. However, the health risks associated with advanced maternal age demonstrate that the biological clock remains a barrier to true gender equality. Women are forced to make difficult decisions about their reproductive health and face the possibility of being judged or criticized for choosing to have children later in life.

While raising a child later in life may present certain challenges, there are numerous advantages to consider. One such benefit is the potential for greater financial stability and emotional maturity among older parents, leading to a more secure upbringing for their offspring. Furthermore, parents with more years of life experience under their belts are likely equipped with valuable wisdom and insight that they can share with their children as sources of guidance and support throughout various stages of development. These unique attributes possessed by older parents can prove incredibly beneficial not only to themselves but also to the overall well-being and growth of their children.

In this podcast episode, we will explore the pros and cons of delayed parenthood, focusing on the health risks associated with advanced maternal age, societal pressures placed on women to have children, and the potential benefits of waiting until later in life to start a family.