The Surprising Link Between Having Babies Later and Living to 100!
When I first read about about the link between women having babies later and living longer I was immediately interested as I had my babies at ages 37 and 39.
Having not really enjoyed being referred to as a 'geriatric mother', I was all for finding out the science behind this link and thought you might be interested too.
Women who give birth after the age of 33 have DOUBLE the chance of living past 95 and women who give birth after 40 are FOUR TIMES more likely to live to 100!
So, what's going on? Is it just coincidence or something more?
THE SCIENCE
The studies show that later natural conception my be a sign of slower reproductive and biological ageing so chances are your overall body is ageing more slowly so may already be biologically predisposed to longevity.
Research also shows an association to longer telomeres which are the protective caps at the end of your chromosomes which are linked to better cellular health and a longer lifespan.
So your motherhood can extend your life and your body stays biologically younger for longer.
Women who have children later may also benefit from increased emotional maturity, financial stability, and stronger support systems—all of which contribute to reduced stress and better health outcomes over time.
These psychosocial factors could help support healthy aging and longevity as well.
"Sometimes the timing of motherhood says more about our inner strength and vitality than we ever imagined."
CORRELATION NOT CAUSATION
It's important to note that these findings show there is a correlation not that having babies later on is the cause for living longer.
Sadly having children later doesn't guarantee a longer life and many women who give birth earlier also live well into old age.
Genetics, lifestyle, and many other factors all play a vital role.
Whether you had your children early, late, or not at all, the research is a fascinating reminder of the complex, interconnected nature of our bodies, our choices, and our health.
It’s also a wonderful celebration of the strength and resilience of women at every stage of life.
If you gave birth after 33 (or are planning to), you’re in good company, and according to science, you might just be in it for the long haul.
Whenever you have your baby, you can enjoy keeping all their memories safe in our award winning memory journals.
'The Baby Book of You' for the first year and 'The Book of You' for all of childhood.