More Women Over 40 Are Becoming First-Time Mothers – A Historic Shift in the U.S.
For the first time, women over 40 are having more babies than teenage girls. What does it mean for the future of motherhood?
A new report from the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) reveals a striking demographic shift: in 2023, more women aged 40 and older gave birth than teenage girls. This marks a historic first – and symbolizes profound changes in how modern societies approach motherhood and family planning.
Fertility Declines, Maternal Age Rises
According to the NCHS, the U.S. fertility rate continued its decades-long decline, reaching 1.62 births per woman in 2023 – down from 1.66 in 2021 and 2022. That’s the lowest recorded in decades, and a 14% drop since 1990.
Much of this decline stems from a reduction in births among women under 30. In contrast, births among older women are rising rapidly:
The birth rate for women aged 35–39 has risen by 71% since 1990.
Among women aged 40–44, it has soared by 127%.
Why Are More Women Having Children Later?
Experts suggest a combination of factors is driving the trend toward later motherhood:
- greater focus on education and careers
- evolving gender roles and societal expectations
- delayed marriage and long-term partnerships
- access to contraception and fertility treatments
This reflects a shift from unplanned to planned parenthood – often with greater emotional and financial readiness.
Teen Births Reach Historic Low
While older mothers are on the rise, teen births are dropping to record lows. In 1990, teens accounted for 13% of all U.S. births. In 2023, that figure had fallen to just 4%. Among girls aged 10–14, the birth rate has nearly reached zero.
This dramatic drop is viewed as a major public health achievement, attributed to:
- comprehensive sex education
- free access to contraception
- confidential reproductive healthcare
Later Pregnancy Carries More Risk – But Also More Support
While many women over 35 become pregnant naturally, doctors caution that age brings increased risks. Doctors noted higher chances of:
- high blood pressure (gestational hypertension)
- gestational diabetes
- preterm birth
- genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome
Fortunately, advances in prenatal care and screening – along with wider access to fertility treatments – are helping mitigate these risks.
Source: Sarah Varney, NBC News
Report: National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
