Women who have first baby in their 30s may live longer

Study compares life expectancy of European mothers at 65 to age at which they gave birth

Scientists at Portugal’s Coimbra University have found that women who give birth in their 30s may have a higher life expectancy.

When the average age of first-time mothers hit 30 in the UK, studies had warned that delay in pregnancy may leave women childless. However, a new study  has been conducted which compares the life expectancy of European mothers at the age of 65 to the age at which they gave birth. According to a paper published in the Journal of Public Health, women who had their first baby later than those who became mothers in their teens and 20s, were likely to live longer.



“The most relevant result shows that women tend to live longer the older they are when they get pregnant (in particular, for the first child),” it said.

Among the various factors determining women’s life expectancy, "the most surprising factor is the age of women at pregnancy, which may provide evidence to promote pregnancy in the early 30s."

Another study published in the Menopause journal, suggests that women who delivered a baby at 33 or older were three times or more likely to have certain DNA indicators than women who became mothers earlier. However, neither of the studies explain the reason why older mothers may have a longer life.



Fertility expert Lord Winston told The Mail on Sunday that women who give birth in their 30s tend to be more educated and well-off, as a result of which they are able to afford healthier lifestyles. In the UK, average age of a first-time mother is 30, while one in 25 are to women over 40.

As the probability of pregnancy is higher during the 20s, fertility experts have cautioned women about the possibility of not conceiving at all later in life. NHS fertility chief, Professor Geeta Nargund, has warned that Britain faces a ‘fertility timebomb’ as women are unaware of the risks of late pregnancies.

This article originally appeared on The Independent.