Physical and Psychosocial Health Challenges Associated With Late Motherhood: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Late motherhood refers to pregnancy at 35 years or older. The frequency of late
births has increased since the 1980s due to factors such as improved healthcare,
career and education opportunities for women, and evolving societal norms. While
it offers advantages, later motherhood also presents physical and psychosocial
challenges that occur after childbearing.To assessing the physical and
psychosocial health challenges associated with late motherhood.This study
employed a quantitative design/ Cross-sectional study using purposive sampling
was conducted at Raniya City, from September 2024 to May 2025. Data were
collected using a constructed questionnaire based on a review of relevant literature
and standardized psychological assessment tools, and it had a reliability
coefficient of r = 0. 922.Out of 180 participants, 52.8% were aged 35–38 years
old, and 83.9% were housewives. Most had caesarean deliveries (75%). A lot of
mothers said they experienced physical challenges, and Most mothers said that
they weren't depressed, but they did have moderate anxiety, and Social challenges
were less experienced. The study found significant associations between workload
intensity and physical, anxiety, and social challenges. Furthermore, income level
was associated with both physical and psychological challenges.Late motherhood
is associated with a range of physical and psychosocial challenges, particularly
anxiety and physical strain. Despite these challenges, most women reported low
levels of depression, positive social support, and good adaptation to their roles.