Delayed motherhood: Profiles

Abstract


Rosario Sampedro said that late motherhood is a phenomenon that is increasing in recent years, late mother is that having children after 30 years.


Aims: Knowing the profiles of women who choose to be mothers age 30 and older.
Methods: This qualitative study is composed of thirteen interviews and three focus groups. We interviewed women who were mothers in the last five years, having thirty or more, some taking motherhood in a relationship, forming other single parents, some as birthmothers, and others in the context of adoption. In general, respondents have the same cultural level.

Results: Late motherhood is not regarded negatively, as something strange or product failure or failure of a vital, but the only conduct expected in women who aspire to study and work professional life. Having children late is outcome of a life paths that are structured in a very defined: school completion, achievement of a stable employment situation and a capital of professional experience, enjoy a time of consumption and
personal accomplishment,  economic situation consolidation can cope with major investments like buying a home and finally, family formation, with the arrival of children.
Conclusions: While acknowledging certain advantages to early childbearing, greater physical strength, a potential closer in mentality the children, they are undermined by the inconvenience of breaking that ideal life path. Hence, "between thirties and forties is the best age ", which involves delayed childbearing serenity, stability, ability to take responsibility, both by parents and mothers, and ultimately enhancing the enjoyment of children.