The Pros and Cons of Getting Pregnant at 40

There are many reasons why women choose to get pregnant at 40 as opposed to building a family much earlier. Some women are more interested in establishing a professional career than in starting a family. Others have financial obligations to fulfill requiring that they work for awhile before considering the option of having children. Others simply want to enjoy their youth without the responsibility of children for the time being. Whatever reason women have for opting to get pregnant at 40, they should be well aware of the pros and cons of their decision.
Advantages of Getting Pregnant at 40
One of the greatest advantages of getting pregnant at 40 as opposed to younger years is the prospect of better financial stability. Women who establish their careers earlier in life have the opportunity to accrue financial security for starting a family later on down the line. This enables them to better handle the high cost of raising a family today.
Financial stability includes paying off college debts or other financial obligations. Some women put off having children until all their debts have been paid and they have had the opportunity to invest in basic needs such as a vehicle, computer, home furnishings, etc. Having the essentials to set up a household can give a woman a good head start financially when it comes time to starting a family.
Women who want to enjoy a care-free lifestyle while they are young will undoubtedly choose to get pregnant at 40 rather than in earlier years. This gives them the opportunity to travel, explore new interests, learn new hobbies, have fun or pursue additional education without the restrictions that children bring. Once a woman becomes a mother, her whole perspective changes to face the responsibilities of taking care of her children.
Disadvantages of Getting Pregnant at 40
On the flip side, there are some disadvantages of getting pregnant at 40 as opposed to a younger age. Older women will face the same physical responsibilities of child-rearing but will have less energy for the task. Young children require a lot of physical care to include changing diapers, feeding, bathing, dressing, etc. As children become school age, a mother's job expands to include school responsibilities of attending meetings and functions, sports activities, helping with homework, etc. This requires even more time and stamina.
Some women who choose to become pregnant at 40 may find it difficult to get pregnant at all due to a lower fertility rate. In addition, women who get pregnant at 40 or older increase the risk of having a Down's Syndrome child or a child with other birth defects.
Being fully aware of the pros and cons of having children later in life can help women make better decisions concerning their future. Parenting is a big responsibility that requires a great deal of time and sacrifice. Women who opt to get pregnant at 40 should weigh their options carefully and make knowledgeable decisions that they will not regret in the future.

The author has spent a lot of time learning about pregnant at 40 and other related topics. Read more about get pregnant at 40 at the author's website.