The number of Irish women over the age of 40 having babies has seen a rise of more than 150pc over the past four decades, according to new figures. An increase in assisted reproduction among women in their 40s, along with career and cost-of-living considerations, are thought to be factors in the rise. The statistics show women over 40 made up 3.3pc of births in 1990 compared with 8.4pc of births last year. Meanwhile, the number of mothers between 40 and 44 has been rising steadily every year. The caesarean section rate rose sharply from 5.9pc to 29.7pc, while vaginal birth after caesarean section dropped from 90pc to 28pc.

Source: Irish Independent June 06, 2021 01:36 UTC