The conception rate for women aged 40 and over has reached a record high, prompting fears that the growing number of older mothers is putting pressure on over-stretched maternity units.

The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics show that the overall conception rate rose by nearly three per cent between 2005 and 2006, while the rate for women over 40 jumped by more than six per cent.
As young women tend to delay starting a family in order to focus on their careers, hospitals are struggling to cope with rising numbers of older mothers, who are more likely to suffer complications.
Are women leaving it too late to start a family? What is the best age to be a parent? Do more mature, professional women make better mothers?
Are young women sacrificing too much for their careers?
Telegraph

The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics show that the overall conception rate rose by nearly three per cent between 2005 and 2006, while the rate for women over 40 jumped by more than six per cent.
As young women tend to delay starting a family in order to focus on their careers, hospitals are struggling to cope with rising numbers of older mothers, who are more likely to suffer complications.
Are women leaving it too late to start a family? What is the best age to be a parent? Do more mature, professional women make better mothers?
Are young women sacrificing too much for their careers?
Telegraph



