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All posts tagged later-motherhood by MomsNextDoor

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.

Why Waiting to Have Kids Could Be the Best Decision You Ever Make

I wanted to be a young mom, but life had a different plan — and I'm so glad it did.

That’s the heartfelt confession shared by a woman who dreamed of motherhood by 25 but ended up welcoming her children at 37 and 40. Her story, featured in a recent Business Insider article here, isn’t just a personal journey — it challenges the common narrative many face about the “right time” to become a mom.

If you’ve ever felt the pressure of a ticking biological clock or wondered whether it’s too late to pursue your dream of motherhood, keep reading. This story, and so many like it, offer a fresh perspective that might just change how you see your own path.

The Myth of the “Perfect Age” to Become a Mom

For decades, the ideal has seemed clear: have kids young, preferably before 30. But what if waiting until your late 30s or even 40s can offer advantages many don’t expect?

The woman in the article describes feeling like she “had failed” for not meeting her own deadline. Yet, the reality is, those years gave her something invaluable — maturity, emotional resilience, and financial stability. These gifts often translate into more confident parenting and a deeper appreciation of the journey.

What Does This Mean For You?

Whether you’re just starting your conception journey or reconsidering your timeline, it’s important to remember that every path is unique. If natural conception is challenging later on — or if life has delayed your plans — you’re not alone.

This is where innovative home conception solutions become a game-changer. Companies like MakeAMom have revolutionized the experience by offering at-home insemination kits tailored to diverse needs.

  • CryoBaby for low-volume or frozen sperm
  • Impregnator for low motility sperm
  • BabyMaker for users with sensitivities or conditions like vaginismus

These kits are reusable and cost-effective alternatives to clinical procedures, with an impressive 67% success rate reported by users. This means the dream of parenthood is more accessible — no matter your age or circumstances.

Redefining Fertility and Family Building

More people are embracing the idea that fertility and motherhood do not have to follow a one-size-fits-all timeline. Whether due to career goals, personal growth, or unforeseen life events, waiting can offer benefits that younger motherhood may not.

And the tools to support you at every stage are evolving.

What Can You Take Away From This?

  • You are not behind. Your timing is your own. There is no universal “right age” to have a baby.
  • Empowerment comes from knowledge and support. Understanding your options — like using at-home insemination kits or seeking professional guidance — puts you in control.
  • Embrace your unique journey. Whether you’re 25, 35, or 45, every step is a step closer to your dream.

Final Thoughts: What’s Your Story?

The inspiring story of waiting until 37 and 40 to have children is a reminder that patience, self-compassion, and resourcefulness can lead to fulfilling motherhood.

If you’re exploring home conception, consider how tools like those offered by MakeAMom can make your journey more comfortable, private, and hopeful.

What’s your take? Have you found unexpected blessings in waiting? Or are you just beginning to explore your options? Share your story below — because every journey deserves to be celebrated.

Why Waiting to Have Kids Might Be the Best Decision You Never Expected

I wanted to be a young mom. I told myself I'd have to be a parent by 25 — but life had a different plan. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. I recently read a powerful article on Business Insider titled “I wanted to be a young mom. I had my kids at 37 and 40, and I'm glad I waited.” The author’s story struck a deep chord with me — and made me rethink the timing and journey of motherhood in today's world. Let’s unpack why waiting might actually be one of the best decisions you never expected to make, especially when home conception is part of your path.

The Pressure to Become a Mom Early – Where Does It Come From?

Society constantly pushes a timeline for motherhood. From teenage dreams to college whispers, many of us grow up believing there's a strict expiration date on when to have kids. “By 25 or not at all” echoes in countless minds, just like the author’s story. But what if those deadlines don’t fit your story? What if they don’t fit your life at all?

I’ve seen so many women wrestle with this pressure — sometimes leading to rushed decisions or sheer heartbreak when plans don’t align with biology, careers, or personal growth.

The Unexpected Gift of Waiting

Waiting to become a mom isn't always a sign of delay — for many, it’s a deliberate, courageous choice. Waiting often means more time to understand your body, to nurture emotional wellness, and to prepare for the monumental journey of parenthood.

The Business Insider article beautifully highlights that becoming a mom in your late 30s or even 40s can bring unique joys and challenges, but ultimately, it can be just as fulfilling — if not more so. The author admits gratitude for the timing, saying she feels more ready, emotionally grounded, and appreciative of motherhood than she would've been at 25.

But What About Fertility? Is It Too Late?

Here’s the truth: fertility does change over time, and for some, it can present obstacles. But advances in fertility technology and creative family-building solutions are helping many women overcome challenges.

Take the option of home insemination kits, for example. With products like those offered by MakeAMom, individuals and couples can try at-home conception in a comfortable, private setting — whether that’s dealing with low motility sperm, sensitivity issues, or using frozen sperm. Kits like CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker are designed for different fertility needs and offer a reusable, cost-effective alternative to clinical treatments.

For women having children later in life, these options can be empowering. They provide flexibility and control, which can make all the difference when every moment counts.

Emotional Wellness and Motherhood Timing

Waiting often means having more clarity about your emotional readiness. Motherhood is a beautiful, complex journey — one that requires resilience and support.

Feeling prepared emotionally can radically change your experience. You might find yourself more patient, more connected to your partner, or simply more tuned into what you want from life. And while younger moms can be just as amazing, the emotional growth that comes with waiting is a gift many don’t anticipate.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re reading this and wrestling with the timing of your motherhood journey, here’s something important to remember:

  • There is no “one size fits all” timeline. Your story is yours.
  • Modern solutions like at-home insemination kits can support your family-building efforts, no matter your age or situation.
  • Emotional readiness is just as vital as physical readiness — sometimes more so.
  • Waiting doesn’t mean giving up; it often means preparing, learning, and growing in ways that will ultimately serve you and your family beautifully.

Final Thoughts

The truth is, life is full of surprises. Sometimes, our plans don’t unfold the way we imagined — and that’s okay. The author of the Business Insider piece didn’t become a mom young, but her journey turned out to be richer and more meaningful for it.

Whether you’re trying to conceive at 22 or 42, remember you’re not alone — and there’s support designed just for you. Explore how home insemination kits can empower your journey and embrace the timing that feels right.

So, what’s your story? Have you found peace in waiting, or are you seeking new tools and encouragement to start your family now? Share your thoughts below — because this community is here to listen, support, and celebrate with you.

Here’s to motherhood on your own terms.