Am I Too Old to Have a Baby

I don't think you are to old I have a very close friend who has a 5 year old daughter. got married for the first time at 35 and had her second child at 36. and is still going to have more. you are only as old as you think you are if you think you can handle it then you can do it! I say if you want another baby go for it!

I am 9 years older than my sister and my parents really liked the age difference. Apparently, I was a big help when I was younger! I we never fought, because we liked totally different things. I wouldn't worry about the age difference!

I would definitely say that you are NOT too old. I was 31 when I had my second child (he's two now). At the time, my daughter was 7 years old and she was excited to have a new sibling, although she really wanted a sister. Personally, I do wish that they were closer in age because I think they would get along better. Right now, my son always wants to go into my daughter's room and stuff and she gets annoyed by him (my son is very naughty though). I even think I would have wanted another, but after having my son, I think I have all that I can handle!!! Now, on the other...I often think about how I'll be nearly 50 years old before both kids are grown! Either way, good luck to you.

sweetie if i could i would of had one when i was that old but i stopped cause i said that 3 was enough ! no u arent too old if u want one have one! ur other son will probably be tickled pink lol!

I dont thinkyour too old. Are you in good health? I think health matters more than age. My mother in law is 40, and has a 10 mo old. the pregnancy and baby was just fine.
K.

You are definelty not to old to have a baby! Dont worry about the difference in ages between your kids. My stepson was 5 when we had a baby. If you are in good health, everything will go fine.

Also, Keep in mind that there are people out there that are 40+ and having healthy, happy children.

First let me congradulate you on your upcoming wedding. Secondly no you are not to old to have a baby , a woman can safely have a baby well into her 40's , as for the age gap to be honest I dont know about that to well..yet. There are almost 5 years between my oldest and my twins, and come July there will be 10 years between my twins and the newcoming baby and 15 years between my oldest and youngest, so I definatley hear your concern. I have had many people telling me that no that isnt much of an age gap and with children being wellspaced they actually get along better..So I wouldnt let the gap scare you. Good Luck.

i think as long as your are physical healthy to have a baby, you are not too old. i was 35 and 36 when i had my two and now i'll be 39 in march..
the large age difference i can't really answer to, since mine are only 9 1/2 months apart..
my sister had her two 14 years apart,, and the older one was a big help to her and also he has learned how to be around babies and is agreat dad now to his girlfriends 2 year old.
but,, the only bad thing i did see with my sister and them being so far apart,, is that she would use the older one as a built in sitter and he didn't get to be out with friends often or have much of a life outside of going to school and coming home. and he did create some resentment about the whole thing at one point. that's not saying all large age gaps would create this,,i think it depends on the parent.. that's my two cents ;-)

I dont think your to old to be having another child, Im also a stay at home mom in her 30's and my children where 10 and 11 when my boyfriend and I desided to have another child. She will be 3 in June and I had her when I was 32. Although my pregnancy was very very much different then the others, I don't have much time to write, As Im headed to a doctors app. but if you'd like to talk more about this. Please feel free to message me back. A.

HEAVENS NO you're not to old! I just had my 4th child at 35 and there is a 7 year gap between my oldest 2 children(13 & 9) and my youngest 2 (2 and 3 months). The older kids LOVE to help out with the youngest, so I'm never lacking in a pair of arms to hold the baby or someone to play with the 2 year old. It's GREAT!

Best of luck to you!

You are not too old. I was 34 with my 1st and 35 with my 2nd. A friend of mine was 43.

Now for your other child. Statistics do say that kids who have a six year gap tend to be in the only child track. So you may need to take some extra time to help him adjust from being an only child to "sharing" or what to expect when he's no longer the only one. My husband and his sister were 7 years apart and there have been some issues that only recently are beginning to surface, such as resentment on her part (she's older) that Chris was born at a more stable time ($$$) than she was, so he got more advantages.

Plus, as the new baby grows and begins the "hero worship" phase, your oldest will have to learn to patient as the younger one will want to be everywhere he is.

It could be a great nurturing experience for you and you son to take part in. Helping to instill stronger compassion in him.

Family vacations may require a bit more creative because you'll have such varying points of interests than if they were closer. Even with my sibs being each 4 years apart that was hard between the oldest (me) and the youngest.

YOu are definitely NOT too old. (I am currently 34 and in the first trimester of my second pregnancy. My first pregnancy resulted in two beautiful twins--they were born shortly after I turned 33.) Conceiving after you are 35 can carry some risks but it is still fairly common-- from what I have seen. And an 8-9 year difference between siblings just means that they dynamic between the kids will be a bit different than for kids 2 or 3 years apart. You will be fine-- and so will your 8 year old. (For the record, I am 7 years older than my brother. We are very close even though he lives in Maryland and I live in Nebraska.)

Hi S.! I became pregnant for the first time at 41, in spite of three forms of birth control! My sister had her first in her 30's and another sister is now pregnant at age 41 (her first child is 10). My personal opinion is that there are definite benefits to having children beyond your 20's, being more mature and, in my case, much more patient.

My youngest sister is 6 years younger than I am. She was greatly loved, spoiled, and cared for by all her older brothers and sisters. She was also pretty much an only child during her high school years. She and mother are quite close.

Biologically, 31 does not seem too old to have another child. Have you consulted with your OB/GYN yet regarding having another child?

M.

You are not to old. I have six and my oldest is 10 and my youngest is 6 mos. I am 32. I am finished having children since I now have six and that is how many I wanted.

People are having children in their 30's and 40's now. Just talk to your doctor about your own health and any concerns but, you are not to old!

A.

NO!
I had my 1st son as a single mom at age 20. I did not marry the man of my dreams till I was 27. Heck I didn't meet him till I was 25. My son was 5yrs old and his daughter was 5yrs old when we met. We had our 1st baby together when our kids were 8. They love it! We now have 2 12yr olds , a 4yrold and an 18mo old. I would not change a thing. I am 32 and done because of several miscarriages. But if I could I would have one more. Congrats on your upcoming wedding :O)

I was ten when my mom had my little sister (and my brother is 22 months younger than I am). My mom was 33 at the time my sister was born. I can't say how she feels about starting again ten years later (it was a surprise pregnancy) and I know she's happy know, but from the kid's point of view it is great. I was very excited at 10 years old to have a new sister and it's wonderful now too, we get along great.

You are not too old to have another baby. I am 32. My husband and I (of 13 years) have an 11 year old daughter, a seven year old daughter, and decided to try for a boy last year. Not only did we get our boy, we got a suprise with a daughter also. I think I am more patient now than in my twenties. I seem to have more time and notice the little things more now. Good luck!!!

I think the age gap is fine - my husband has a daughter who is 11 years old right now, and we got married last year and plan on having kids of our own soon. Her mom & stepdad had a new baby last year, so there is a 10 year age difference between them, and my stepdaughter LOVES it. She loves that she gets to help teach her little sister words, colors, music, etc, and she helps watch her while her mom is home. They do not plan to use her as a full-time sitter, because she still needs to spend time with her friends, being a kid.

Also, I think 31/32 years old is fine for having a baby these days... we have such long life spans now that having a kid in the house when you're 50 years old isn't that big of a deal (50 is young!), and our bodies can handle pregnancy at much later ages. My sister-in-law is 34 and she is due in one week... the bad news is that she was a higher risk pregnancy due to being a little older, a little overweight, and being RH negative, and so she had to see the doctor every week during the pregnancy to make sure everything went fine. The good news is that she is going to have a nice, healthy baby girl in about 10 days.

At 33 somedays I feel like I am too old to be having a baby and a two year old, however its wonderful at the same time. No I dont think 8 yrs or more is too big of an age difference, as my sister and a sister-in-law have that big or bigger age differences. My son and daughter #1 are 5 yrs apart and let me tell you its so much easier then 2 yrs because my son is the biggest help to me and gets along with his little sisters so wonderfully. Even when pregnant, your son will be the biggest help to you. My son called himself my picker upper, as you remember how hard it was to bend towards then end. I say go for it, unless you have hit menopause, then your not too old to have babies!

I don't think your too old to have another child.

S.,

I dont feel you are to old for another child, but i woul talk to your Doctor to get he go ahead. As far as the age gap between your kids? Well my oldest is 21 and my youngest is 4. and with him being in the military they have had a hard time getting to know one another,. BUt my ohter kids who are still around, 20,18,14 they are so close its almost scarey. And from a moms point of view, I LOVE being a parent at my age ( 43) Im more laid back, a heck of alot more patient and i take time to do things with my daughter on a one on one basis that i was rarely unable to give my boys! I say go for it!
A.

I don't think you are too old to have a baby. I am 30 and just got married for the first time last year and got pg in Feb and we are now trying for another (we lost the baby in May) and the way things are going I will be at least 31 when we get pg again. I say if you are healthy and you also want another, go for it.
As far as the age difference, I wouldn't worry about that either. I have a son age 11 1/2, a stepson age 12, and a stepdaughter age 10. They all loved the idea of a baby in the house (of course they all have yet to experience the crying and diapers LOL!) But I know they will all be excited when we get pg again. (My son was excited because he would have been 16 when the baby would have been 5 and he said he could drive him/her around).
Good luck and congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
K.

Well, a lot of it depends on you...your energy level, your desire for another child, things like that. I personally don't think 32 is too old (otherwise, I'm in trouble...we plan on trying for #2 in '08, and I'll be 31 then!). As far as 8-9 years being 2 far apart, I would say it would be FOR ME, but I don't think that it would necessarily be bad for your family. Like most decisions, there are pros and cons. Some pros, your son will probably not be as jealous as a 2 or 3 year old, because he has a greater understanding of the world in general, and may really respond enthusiastically to the idea of being a big brother. He is certainly old enough to help more. You don't have to worry about paying double college tuitions for overlapping years, or paying for 8+ years non-stop, you would get a 4 year break in between tuitions. In a few more years, your son can babysit for you guys occasionally if you guys want to go out. They would probably fight less, since your son will be more mature and will be able to handle a "tag along" better than a sibling closer in age, not to mention they probably won't be interested in many of the same things. And if the 2nd is a girl, it's even more likely that fighting will be to a minimum. Your youngest wouldn't have to have "little brother/sister" syndrome at school, like my sister did. Most of the teachers and students often referred to her as "M.'s little sister", so it was annoying to her, since so much of her identity at school was wrapped up in me. Your youngest wouldn't experience much, if any, of that. Your youngest may exhibit more "first born" or "only" child traits, specifically over achievement, higher ambition and drive, more maturity. You get to prolong having a child in your house (a pro to some, a con to others). Some cons: because they will be so far apart in age, there is the possibility that they will not be as close as some siblings who have less years between them, although I think that can be alleviated by how much time you all spend together as a family. You may be ready to have a kid free home before the youngest is ready to leave. Assuming the youngest goes to college at 18, you will have had a child in your home for 26-27 years. Again, this might be a pro or a con, depending on your goals, personality, etc. For me personally, it would be way too long. These are all questions only you can answer. Either way, make a decision before you get married. This is one thing that could cause problems down the line if a decision isn't made before you tie the knot. But I think if you feel that you can handle it energy-wise, there is no physical reason not to have a baby at 32, and I don't think 8-9 years is too far apart, generally speaking. My husband is 12 years younger than his brother, and I don't think it caused any real problems. They are not all that close, but my husband isn't close with anyone in his family, since they're all pretty much insane. 12 years age difference has little to do with him not being close to his brother. I hope this helps!

M.

No way, I was 33 y.o when I had my first baby and when I had twins I was 35 1/2 y.o.( all my girls were born full term infact my first daughter was born late and the twins were at 38.5 weeks. Only induced because I was dialated to 4 centimeter and my OB didn't want to miss the window to have my epidural placed. No complication with either pregnacy) I don't feel that I'm too old for the kids. My grandma was 30 y.o when she had the first of four kids and this was in 1928. My mom had her first of four kids when she was 34 and had the last on when she was 39 1/2. Besides now a days more people are having babbies later in life. But do remember after 35 and since you already have one there is a greater chance for multiple births. Remember that your soon to be husband hasn't had the chance to live through a pregnacy or the beauty of seeing his child born. Actually, having a older child would be a help for you. Can help feed new sibling, change diapers and watch the baby when you need a nap

I do not think 32 is too old. Talk to your Dr. about your concerns and he/she should have some advice/recomendations for you.

I don't think your too old to have a baby at all! In fact, I believe I am too young. Im 22 and having my 2nd. Age doesnt mean a whole lot. If you can provide and love your baby who cares. My youngest sister is 4 years old, so there is an 18 year difference. I think its smart to have children later. Your usually more patient. Plus your ONLY 32!!! You are still very young. You could have 2 more kids!!!!!

I am 33 yrs old and have 3 boys aged 7, 10, 13 and I am pregnant with number 4 on January 13, 2008. I also have a step-son. I recently had my tubes untied. You are NOT too old to have another baby. Lots of women are just beggining to have kids in their 30's. I wish you the best of luck!! The best advice I can give you is chart your cycle and it will happen....(it only took us 4 weeks after surgery to get pregnant..lol). We are planning on having a second one right after this one so that I can get fixed again. We decided that 6 will be enough kids for us...lol.

I do not think you are too old at all, but I agree it is definitly something to talk to your ob/gyn about.

As far as the age difference, I do not think eight years apart at all. In some cases your eight your old may be a great helper. I have learned from experiencd; my daughter was 5 when I had my son and I also am 14 years older than my younger brothers. As in any sibling relationship there will always be the pros and cons of having children close in age or further apart but what matters most is the LOVE that resides in your home.

Take Care!

No, you are not too old! Are you kidding???????? You are still young in my eyes! And the gap....I know you are more than likely talking about the time frame between the last pregnancy and a new pregnancy and not the age difference. I have heard that pregnancy and delivery can be a little tougher when you wait more than 4 years between babies, but the key word is "little" and who isn't up for a challange? You can do this! Well, unless deep down you don't want to do this. Do you? No matter what, best wishes on the upcoming wedding!
M. S.

31 is not too old to have a baby. My youngest is 4, and my oldest is 16. that is 11 1/2 years apart. they get along pretty good.

No your not too old to have a baby my b/f is 31 and were still considering maybe having one. He has a twelve year old and a three year old and I have a two year old. I think youd be alright in trying. Theres alot of new stuff out there and look at the lady that was 50 when she had a kid. I wouldn't wait untill then but your still young and in your prime I think Once you hit forty that should be the cut-off. I am only 22 but still I have a freind whose 29 and still don't have kids so if she ever plans on it she'll be well over 31.

I don't think that you are too old to have another baby!! I will tell you that I am 7 and 11 years older than my younger brothers and it was hard for me. I always had to stay home and baby sit and he was constantly in my room getting in my things... you know the regular things that siblings argue about! But when I truned 16 my brothers loved it because they could go with me and we spent a lot more time together! In the end everything will turn out ok and I love my baby brothers so much!! I am sure that your son would love to have someone to play with in the future!!
Good luck A.

I have a 4 year old and a 2 year old and two 13 year old stepsons. If anything, the age gap is great at my house. The younger ones love their older brothers so much and look up to them. Plus the 13 year olds have learned to be so much more responsible with their younger brothers around. I love the help that I get from them and they can change diapers too.

My children are seven years apart. My 11-year-old is a tremendous help with the four-year-old and always has been. The two of them do have frequent conflicts - I will warn you about that. ANd, it's easy to say that you won't rely on your older child for help - but my oldest is a natural nurturer and want to mother the youngest. This can be problematic on many levels - if you really want details, email me - ____@____.com - However, I know other families with big age gaps and it doesn't seem to be exactly the same for anyone. All kids are different, so it's hard to say how the chemistry will work. When my oldest found out my youngest was on the way - she started to cry. I think she felt "dethroned," if you will. I worried too - I didn't think it would be possible for me to love another child as much as I love the first - especially since for so long it was just the two of us - we grew up together in a way - but love isn't a commodity that runs out - so it is very easy to love them equally.

There are plently of advantages to the age gap too - like the kids are in different activities and it's easier to see them both whereas if they were closer my husband and I may have to divide and conquer like I see many of my friends doing. We also only have one daycare bill right now, instead of two. When we were buying diapers, etc. for the second one, the first one didn't require that expense. I can't say I'd say it's the best way for everyone - but it works all right for us.

As far as your age is concerned - only you can decide that. I don't think 32 is very old and people have babies much later in life than that all the time - but I know that I don't want to have any more kids now. That's just me though. I'm 30. I started having babies when I was 18 - so you can probably understand where I'm coming from. I would tell you to consider just enjoying your husband for a while before having another baby.

Good luck. God bless.

No I don't think you are too old. My friend had a baby at 33 and had a child in Middle school and one in 4th grade. If you want another I say go for it.

As long as you are in good health, 31 is not too old. I was 34 when my son was born 4 years ago and that pregnancy was actually easier than my first at age 27. My children are seven years apart and I think it's great. My 11 year old daughter is a great help with my son(if she wants to be). He actually talked early and extremely well because she loved to teach him things and he idolizes his big sis and wants to do everything she does. They do fight, but so do all siblings.

Congratulations!

Physically you're not too old...I'd start to be cautious about having a baby after 35...but women in their late 30's/early 40's are having healthy babies all the time these days.

I'd ask your child what he thinks about a sibling.

NEVER make your older child the baby's caretaker. Siblings should always stay siblings and never be in a position to act like their parent, at least in my opinion.

Before you get married, make sure that you really want another child...you don't want that to be an issue in your new marriage.