Should You Wait? Exploring the Best Timing for Starting a Family

Let’s discuss one of the biggest dilemmas that many women have: “What is the best time to have a baby?” If you are reading this, you are likely struggling with this decision yourself.

I shall start with my personal experience. Just the thought of those two tiny journeys makes my heart flutter even now because they transformed my world forever. I was 27 when I became a mother for the first time—young, hopeful, and perhaps a little naive about what magic lay ahead. Every kick, every ultrasound, every midnight craving crafted a unique narrative that only first-time moms can relate to.

Then, nine years later, at age 36, life gave me another miracle. I was older, wiser, and more patient this time, but the wonder and excitement felt just as fresh. Each pregnancy told its beautiful story — different symptoms, feelings, and worries. My older body managed things a little differently, but my heart? It expanded just the same.

Now, seeing my two children, born in two different seasons of my life, I marvel at how each pregnancy journey, though fraught, ultimately brought me the greatest gifts I could ever ask for. Not only did these experiences make me a mother, but they also turned my entire world upside down, teaching me strengths that I never knew I possessed and a depth of love that I never imagined possible.

While there isn’t a unique answer, I want to give you some helpful insights to help you navigate this significant life decision.

Nature has its schedule regarding fertility. Your twenties, especially early through mid-twenties, are usually your fertile years. Consider it your reproductive system firing on all of its cylinders — your eggs are healthiest, and your body is mainly prepared to face the rigors of pregnancy. Often, in these years, you’re at lower risk for complications like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure.

But the truth is, those in our early twenties aren’t ready to start a family. And that’s completely okay! Your late twenties to early thirties may still be an excellent baby-making time. Though fertility does begin to decrease slightly, it’s typically a slow change, and many women successfully conceive and have healthy pregnancies during those years.

You’ve likely heard about the “biological clock ticking” after 35. And while it is true that fertility starts to drop more noticeably after this age, it is not a cliff edge. Sure, the risks of some complications rise, and getting pregnant can take longer. Still, medicine has advanced dramatically in supporting later pregnancies. Women give birth to healthy babies in their late thirties and early forties.

Here’s the thing that many pregnancy articles don’t say enough: the “right” time to have a baby is not only about biology. Keep in mind these equally essential factors:

Your Emotional Readiness: Do you feel ready for the vast life transition of parenthood? This emotional maturity is often developed over time and through life experience.

Financial Stability: Let’s be honest—babies are expensive! However, having some financial security can make the whole journey of entering parenthood a little less taxing.

Career Goals: Most women want to build their careers before starting a family. Nothing wrong with putting your development first.

Relationship Status: A partner/strong support system will make or break your parenting experience.

The “perfect” time to have a baby is when it feels right for YOUR situation. Biology does raise some considerations, but it’s only part of the picture.

Some women are ready in their early twenties, some in their late thirties, and either can be a valid choice. Of course, every woman’s journey is a different experience. Whether you’re ready now or plan to consider it later, the important part is making the decision that best suits your personal goals and values. The best thing to do is make an informed decision based on your situational needs.

Check with your health provider for your situation. They can help you identify your fertility status, whether male or female and discuss any risks or considerations based on your age and health history.

The “best” age to get pregnant is when it feels right for you when you are ready to face the ups and downs of motherhood with confidence and the right kind of support.