Until what age is it safe to have another child?

[alanbrenton]

We had our first child in 2000 and was wondering whether there is a cut-off age beyond which there would be more risks / complications with the delivery? Obviously, we haven't met any ob gynecologist since 2000.

My wife is in the early 30's and we are of oriental ethnicity. Should we be consulting a General Practitioner?

Thanks for the advices.

[afong56]

for sure, take any advice here with a grain of salt, afaik, none of us are medical professionals.

that being said, there are a lot of 'beliefs' associated with having children later in life.

increased chances of miscarriage, greater incidence of down's (now debated/debunked?), complications with delivery/birth, development.

at the same time, many women are now having children in their late 30s and into their 40s, without any problems whatsoever.

ironically, i've read research that suggests that women who have a child early in life (late teens) have shorter average life spans than those who wait until later in life. it seems counter-intuitive, since one would think that younger women are more capable of handling the physical trauma of childbirth.

seriously, see a doctor.

[Jucius Maximus]

Some evidence suggests that the older the father is, the greater the chance the child will be autistic! :-0

[qster]

Some evidence suggests that the older the father is, the greater the chance the child will be autistic! :-0

Really now... what proof do these so called doctors have?
Take any news from doctors like a grain of salt...most of it is worthless information to scare the general public into taking medication.

I guess all of Hugh Hefner's kids will have some sort of disability since he's kicking into the 90's and still planning to expand his family.

As for OP's question.. as long as you and your wife are in good health, any time is a good time for another baby when you guys are good and ready. Just get your wife to start on her folic intake.

[alanbrenton]

Thanks for the responses. Maybe my kid won't feel so lonely if we have another one. :)

[ayeung]

Thanks for the responses. Maybe my kid won't feel so lonely if we have another one. :)

But then your 2 children will be like 8 yrs apart?

Having an accompany is the main reason for my "whether to have a 2nd child" debate.