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Ever caught yourself wondering if when you have children could actually shape how long you live? I have—more than once. I remember feeling like I was already “pushing it” when I had my first at 28. Back then, it felt like everyone around me was years ahead in the motherhood department. Then life, as it tends to do, had its own timeline, and my second didn’t come along until I was 34. And let me tell you, that six-year gap didn’t just show up on the calendar—it showed up in my energy levels, recovery time, and how I experienced that second round of newborn life.
It also made me start paying closer attention to the women around me. My mom had us young, and while she’s an amazing woman, I can see how the years and constant caregiving took their toll. My stepmother, on the other hand, had her boys in her late 30s, and now, in her later years, she’s mentally sharp, physically active, and always on the move. Watching her made me wonder… could there really be something to this whole “later motherhood, longer life” idea?
Turns out, science has been asking the same question. And what researchers are finding might just surprise you.
Can Timing Really Predict Longevity?
For years, we’ve been told that having children earlier is “better” for our bodies. And while there’s definitely truth to the fact that younger pregnancies often come with fewer medical risks, researchers are now asking a different kind of question: What about the long game?
One study from the Long Life Family Study (yes, that’s really what it’s called!) found that women who had their last child after the age of 33 were twice as likely to live into their late 90s compared to women who finished having children before 30. Think about that for a second. Twice as likely!
Another study from the University of California discovered that women who had their first child at 25 or older were more likely to reach age 90. And no, this wasn’t about women sipping green smoothies all day and running marathons (though, hey, if that’s your thing, go for it). These were regular women whose childbearing years simply stretched a bit later into life.
But… Why Would That Happen?
Great question. And the answer isn’t completely nailed down, but here’s what researchers think is going on:
- Your Body’s Biological Clock May Be Tied to Overall Aging:
If your body is still able to conceive and carry a healthy pregnancy at an older age, that could be a sign that your biological systems—especially reproductive and hormonal health—are aging more slowly overall. Think of it like your body quietly saying, “I’ve still got this.” - Lifestyle Factors Play a Huge Role:
Many women who delay childbirth have higher education levels, better access to healthcare, and more financial stability—all of which contribute to healthier lifestyles and better long-term health outcomes. It’s not just about biology; it’s about the life you’re living around it.
So… Should You Wait to Have Kids?
Let’s get real for a second. This isn’t about pushing you into one decision or another. Whether you had your first baby at 22 or you’re thinking about trying at 38, this isn’t a competition, and it’s definitely not a checklist for “doing life the right way.”
What this research does tell us is that health and longevity are influenced by so many things—some in our control, and some that just happen because, well… life happens.
Instead of focusing on the perfect age to start or finish having kids, it’s more helpful to ask:
- Am I taking care of myself right now?
- Do I have the support I need—mentally, physically, emotionally?
- Am I making choices that feel right for me and my family, not just what society expects?
Because at the end of the day, whether you’re rocking a newborn to sleep or cheering on your college graduate, the real goal is to be healthy, present, and living a life that feels meaningful to you.
You’re Writing Your Own Story
No research study, social media post, or well-meaning auntie can tell you the exact right time to have children. That’s your story to write. And whether your motherhood journey started early, is happening later, or may never happen at all, what truly matters is how you take care of yourself along the way.
So here’s to you—the moms, the moms-to-be, and the women still figuring it all out. May your years be long, your days be joyful, and your choices be completely, unapologetically yours.
