I Wanted to Be a Young Mom—But Having Kids at 37 and 40 Was the Best Decision I Never Expected
I always told myself that if I wasn’t a mom by 25, I wouldn’t have kids at all. Sound familiar? For years, I clung to this idea—the dream of young motherhood was so powerful, it shaped my plans and my sense of timing. But life, as it often does, threw me a curveball. I ended up welcoming my children at ages 37 and 40. And surprisingly? I’m so glad I waited.
This revelation came from a recent article that really spoke to me: “I wanted to be a young mom. I had my kids at 37 and 40, and I’m glad I waited” (you can read it here: https://www.businessinsider.com/wanted-to-be-young-mom-had-kids-later-in-life-2025-7). The author shares an honest and heartfelt journey of overcoming expectations and embracing motherhood later than planned—and it hit home in such a profound way.
If you’re reading this and feeling the pressure of “the clock” or struggling with your own timeline, you’re not alone. Let’s unpack why becoming a mom later can be an incredible blessing, even if it wasn’t your original plan.
The Pressure of Society’s Timeline
From a young age, we are bombarded with messages that suggest there’s a “best age” to become a mother. Social media highlights glowing young moms juggling motherhood and life like superheroes. Family and friends sometimes unintentionally add to the pressure by asking, “When are you going to have kids?”
But here's the thing: Your timeline is uniquely yours. There’s no one-size-fits-all in parenting, and the journey is what truly matters.
What I Discovered About Being a Mom Later in Life
1. Emotional Readiness: Having kids in my late 30s meant I was more emotionally stable and confident. I had spent time nurturing my own independence and interests, which made me feel more prepared for motherhood’s rollercoaster.
2. Financial Stability: Later motherhood allowed me to build a more secure foundation, which eased a lot of anxiety. It’s not just about affording diapers—having a bit more breathing room financially gave me peace of mind.
3. Rich Life Experience: I wasn’t just a mom; I was a whole person with stories, lessons, and growth. This life experience enriched the relationship I now have with my children.
But What About Fertility Challenges?
We can’t ignore that as we age, pregnancy can sometimes become more challenging. That’s where innovative solutions like those from MakeAMom come into play.
MakeAMom provides at-home insemination kits tailored to different fertility needs—whether it’s low-volume sperm, low motility, or specific conditions like vaginismus. Their kits, such as CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker, are designed to empower individuals and couples to take charge of their conception journey from the comfort and privacy of home.
Knowing there are options like these creates hope and control, especially for those who might be navigating fertility concerns later in life.
How Do You Navigate Your Own Journey?
If you’re wrestling with expectations, timelines, or fertility questions, here are a few thoughts to consider:
- Be kind to yourself: Your path is valid, no matter when or how you become a parent.
- Explore all options: From natural conception to home insemination kits, find what fits your unique story.
- Build your support system: Whether through friends, partners, or online communities, sharing your journey can make a world of difference.
The Takeaway: It’s Never Too Late
Motherhood, in all its forms and timings, is deeply personal and beautiful. Waiting until later in life to have children doesn’t mean missing out—it can mean arriving with a deeper sense of purpose, readiness, and joy.
Have you had a surprise timeline with pregnancy? Or maybe you’re considering home insemination options and want to know more? I’d love to hear your stories and questions in the comments. Remember, the journey to motherhood is as unique as you are.
For anyone curious about taking the reins of their conception journey, exploring options like those at MakeAMom can be a game-changer. Empower yourself with knowledge and resources to shape your own story.
So, what does your motherhood timeline look like? Share your story, and let’s build a community where every mom’s path is celebrated.