Status of late childbirth in 40s in Korea and postpartum situation

Status of late births 

 

  Recently, the number of cases of late births in Korea in their 40s has been steadily increasing. According to the National Statistical Office, the birth rate of women in their 40s has been gradually increasing since the 2000s. This is due to the following factors:

  - Rising marriage age: The age of marriage is being delayed due to academic and career development, and the age of first birth is also being delayed.

- Social stability: The 40s are a time of economic stability and leisure, which can create a good environment for giving birth and raising children.

  - Advancement of medical technology: Advancements in infertility treatment and obstetrics and gynecology medical technology have made late births possible.

The reality of late childbirth in the 40s

Source: Aju Economy

  - Increased birth rate: The birth rate of women in their 40s increased from 5.9% in 2019 to 8.4% in 2023. This is an increase from 17,503 to 19,664.

  - Social change: The increase in births among women in their 40s is influenced by economic stability, career development, and the rise in the age of marriage. Many women are choosing to marry and have children later, prioritizing their careers and self-realization.

  - The number of mothers aged 35 or older increased last year. The birth rate decreased in all age groups, but only in the 40s. The average age of childbirth also increased to 33. According to the '2019 Population Trend Survey Birth and Death Statistics Preliminary Results' announced by Statistics Korea on the 26th, the birth rate decreased in all age groups compared to the previous year, except for those in their 40s.

  - Only the birth rate for those aged 40-44 (early 40s) increased by 9.0% compared to the previous year, and the birth rate for those aged 45-49 (late 40s) remained the same as the previous year. On the other hand, the birth rate for those in their late 20s and early 30s, the most fertile age groups, decreased significantly. All of the ages 20-24 (-13%), 25-29 (-13%), 15-19 (-11%), 30-34 (-6.0%), and 35-39 (-2.0%) recorded negative figures. (Source: Aju Business Daily)

Characteristics of late childbirth

  - Increase in the rate of second and third births compared to the first: In the 40s, births are more common for second or third children than first.

  - Increase in high-risk mothers: Women in their 40s are classified as elderly mothers, and require close management as they are at a higher risk of complications such as gestational diabetes and hypertension.

Situation after late birth

  1. Economic burden and preparation Parents in their 40s are usually financially stable, so they have relatively little time to prepare for childcare expenses. However, since the time they enter high school and college may overlap with the time they retire, long-term financial planning is essential.

  2. Physical fatigue Elderly parents are likely to feel the physical burden of childcare. In particular, lack of sleep and stress during the infant and toddler years can aggravate physical decline.

  3. Psychological changes - Positive changes: Through children, they gain vitality in life and have new goals. - Burden: In some cases, they feel psychological burden due to concerns about the "generation gap with their children" or health issues.

  4. Lack of social support Parents in their early to mid-40s may feel alienated in parenting communities that are usually designed for "young parents." In addition, there is a lack of professional counseling and support for elderly mothers.

Conclusion and Suggestions

  Late childbirth in one’s 40s has both positive and challenging aspects both personally and socially. To support this, the following policy efforts are needed:

  - Expanding support programs for older mothers: Supporting health care and psychological counseling.

  - Strengthening childcare leave and care services: Establishing policies for working parents.

  - Economic support: Institutional support that can reduce the burden of childcare and education costs.

  Late childbirth brings new vitality to life, but it will be a more positive experience when accompanied by systematic and practical social support.