Home > Advice > Baby > Life > What’s the Best Age to Become a Parent?

If there’s a perfect time to have a baby we’re still waiting for the memo.

Though with the average first-time mum now 30 years old (that’s four years older than 40 years ago, says the Office of National Statistics), could later really be better?

Your Late Teens/ Twenties

The Pros
Just Call Us Fertile Myrtle

Since fertility declines with age, you have a higher chance of conceiving naturally the younger you are (bar any pre-existing issues). An estimated 25 percent of women between19 and 25 get pregnant within the first month of trying.

You’ll Have The Gift Of Time

With any luck you’ll get to enjoy your kids (and their kids) decades to come. And you’ll still look hot for most of those.

The Cons
The Financial Hit Is Harder

At this age, you’re probably still finding your financial feet. Prams and nappies don’t come cheap; disproportionately so when you’re dealing with student debt or working to get on the property ladder.

You Haven’t Found Your Village Yet

A solid support system is hugely important when you’re bringing up a family. Chances are your mates are still making inappropriate life choices and partying 24/7 while you’re struggling with night feeds and silent reflux.

Your Mid-To-Late Twenties

The Pros
You’ve Still Got The Energy

It wasn’t that long ago that you were stumbling out of the club at 5am and pulling all-nighters to finish your dissertation. Night feeds might not feel so bad.

You’ve Got Time For A Second Wind When The Kids Leave Home

Empty nesters by your late forties and free to live your best life? Ibiza here you come!

The Cons
Your Career Is Just About To Take Off

Just as you find your dream job, you’re about to step away for a year of mat leave. It shouldn’t matter, but (let’s face it), sometimes it does.

Thirties

The Pros
You Know Who You Are

You’ve survived the crippling insecurity years and finally feel happy in your own skin. You’ve got this.

The Party’s Over Anyway

You’ve travelled, you’re partied and you’re more than ready to hang up your Manolos for a pair off UGGs and your comfiest PJs.

The Cons
It Could Be Harder To Conceive

Mother Nature waits for no (wo)man. While your career and confidence are in full bloom, fertility declines rapidly from the age of 35.

Forty+

The Pros
You’ll Have High Achieving Kids

A recent study in the US suggested offspring of ‘advantaged maternal age mothers’ had better educational outcomes, including higher test scores and better graduation rates.

You’ll Have More Patience, Too

With life experience comes an understanding that sometimes things are outside your control. If anyone can sit back and ride out the tantrums, it’s you.

The Cons
Pregnancy And Birth Can Be Riskier For You And The Baby

Delightfully dubbed ‘Geriatric Mothers’, women over the age of 35 are typically at a higher risk of issues such as pre-eclampsia, high blood pressure and premature delivery.

Based on what you love