Actress Amanda Carter, 54, recently welcomed her fifth child in late June, sparking conversations on social media about the joys of motherhood later in life. Statistics confirm that more women are embracing motherhood beyond their 30s, a trend that’s evident in playgrounds, daycare centers, and even PTA meetings.
Being an older mom can be a delightful yet challenging experience. For instance, I became a mom for the third time at 38, placing me squarely in the “advanced maternal age” category—thanks for that label, medical community! While being a mother is a wonderful journey at any age, navigating it in a society that idolizes youth can be a bit of a rollercoaster. Humor and camaraderie with fellow older moms help me cope with the ups and downs.
Here’s a lighthearted look at some telltale signs that you might be an older mom—especially if you’re not one of those Hollywood stars with a personal trainer on speed dial:
- Your TV viewing includes commercials for bladder control products or mobility scooters.
- You finally give in and buy that bathing suit with a skirt because comfort reigns supreme.
- You’ve mastered just enough social media to embarrass your teen with an accidental “like” on a post.
- You often wonder who decided that middle and high school should start so early when you feel like a zombie.
- You choose bold necklaces to divert attention from those pesky fine lines on your face.
- Planning a vacation now means bringing your 10-year-old son and your 85-year-old mother along—a true “sandwich generation” excursion.
- After sitting on the bleachers, your knees protest louder than the crowd at your child’s game.
- Your menstrual cycle now resembles more of a comma or a question mark than a period.
- The thought of your nighttime skincare routine makes you groan. Who knew a décolleté existed, let alone needed care?
- Sunglasses have become your go-to accessory to cover droopy eyelids in case someone snaps a picture.
- Your bathroom cabinet resembles a mini-pharmacy with all the medications and creams you now require.
- The teen heartthrob who once made you swoon is now a senior citizen.
- You sometimes forget to whip up dinner for your youngest since they’re the last one at home.
- You find yourself taking notes during extreme makeover shows, secretly wishing for your own makeover.
- You feel a twinge of annoyance when a store clerk—who looks your age—calls you “sweetie.”
- Your trusty concealer has graduated to an all-over foundation.
- You’ve transitioned from an OB/GYN to just a GYN—no need for the “O” anymore.
- Attending a PTA meeting, you hope you’re not the oldest mom in the room.
- You can’t resist infomercials about wrinkle creams or weight loss when you have a credit card in hand.
- You haven’t glanced at instruction manuals in ages because the print is too tiny to read.
While this is a humorous take on the realities of being an older mom, it’s essential to remember that the journey of motherhood is unique and rewarding, no matter the age. For more insights on fertility and parenting, check out our post on boosting fertility supplements at Make a Mom. And if you’re expecting, Women’s Health offers an excellent resource for all things related to pregnancy. Need to know your due date? Learn more from Intracervical Insemination.
In summary, being an older mom offers its own set of challenges and humorous moments. Embracing this chapter with laughter and connection with others can make the journey even more fulfilling.