I had a baby at 44 – this is what it’s really like

A growing number of high-profile women in their mid-40s are defying traditional expectations about motherhood, with several celebrities welcoming new children in recent months. Among them is a journalist and beauty editor who gave birth to her second child at 49, challenging long-held notions about age and fertility. The trend reflects a broader shift in societal attitudes toward aging and parenthood, particularly among women who are increasingly choosing to start or expand their families later in life. In May, singer Paloma Faith, 44, gave birth to her third child, joining other notable figures such as Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman, 44, and Anne Hathaway, 43, who are also expecting their third children. This surge in births among women in their late 40s has sparked discussions about the term "geriatric pregnancy," which is gradually losing relevance as public perception evolves. Celebrities like Sienna Miller, 44, have openly criticized the stigma associated with older mothers, calling the focus on age "unbelievably misogynistic and anti-feminist." Miller, who recently became a grandmother, emphasized that age should not dictate a woman's ability to parent effectively. In an interview with Elle magazine, she stated that being a mother in her 40s has made her a more grounded and emotionally stable individual. She noted that her current parenting experience is vastly different from her earlier years, attributing this change to greater self-awareness and maturity. The journalist, who chose to remain anonymous, shared her personal journey of giving birth to her third child at 44. She described the initial weeks of motherhood as significantly more challenging compared to her previous experiences with her older children. The added complexity of caring for three young children, combined with the physical and emotional toll of perimenopause, contributed to feelings of overwhelm and uncertainty. However, she eventually found balance through hormone replacement therapy and improved rest. Her experience highlights the varied challenges and rewards of having children later in life. While some aspects of motherhood remained consistent, others evolved. For instance, she noted feeling more emotionally attuned and better equipped to handle the demands of raising children. The journalist also acknowledged the unique anxieties that accompany being an older mother, including concerns about longevity and the desire to provide a long-term presence for her children. Another perspective comes from Lisa Oxenham, a journalist and beauty editor who had her second child at 49. Unlike the journalist, Oxenham did not experience the same level of exhaustion during the early stages of motherhood. She attributed this to her increased awareness of self-care and the ability to manage her energy levels effectively. Oxenham feels more confident and emotionally balanced, suggesting that age can bring clarity and strength rather than depletion. These accounts underscore the diversity of experiences among older mothers, each shaped by personal circumstances, health, and support systems. While some face heightened challenges, others find renewed vigor and purpose in their roles as parents. As more women choose to embrace motherhood at various stages of life, the narrative surrounding age and fertility continues to evolve, reflecting broader cultural shifts toward inclusivity and acceptance.