More Babies are Now Born to Women Over 40 Than Teens — A Historic First

Mothers in their forties are making history in the United States as they outrank teen births for the first time.

According to a new CDC report, births to women over 40 have risen 193% since the 1990s, while teen births have declined by 73%. While many factors affect births and natality, the report focuses on showcasing why women are choosing motherhood later in life, and how society affects their decisions.

Women are choosing motherhood later in life

Over the last decades, the age of first pregnancies in the U.S. has risen. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 19 percent of all births, and 11 percent of first pregnancies, were in women 35 years or older.

There are many factors at play as to why women are choosing pregnancy later in life. Among them is a focus in their career, economic barriers, lack of maternity benefits, and higher levels of sexual education. The CDC report states in 2023, 4.1% of all births were in women 40 years or older. Teen births that year were at 4.0%.

Additionally, births are on the decline in general. Total births dropped by 14% between 1990 and 2023, approximately 3.6 million per year. The report shows the decline is in part to less young people having children. Statistics also show that births in women aged 20-24 also dropped by 44%.

Societal factors greatly affect why women are choosing to be mothers later in life

A major societal factor influencing women to birth later in life is the pursuit of education and career advancement. While many of our families relied on the community, such as grandparents, to help with childcare, modern times are different. Many women are choosing to stabilize themselves financially to support their families.

Economic pressures and lack of systems that support motherhood play a huge role in postponing motherhood. The rising cost of housing, childcare, and healthcare access make it difficult for people to feel financially prepared for children. Additionally, job insecurity and lack of comprehensive family leave discourage childbearing for younger women.

Advances in fertility treatments and reproductive healthcare are helping women conceive well into their forties, reducing biological pressures. In many ways, age is becoming less of a factor and more of an advantage for motherhood.

Zulay’s 9 Hacks to Help Your Holiday Season Run Smoothly

Zulay, Kevin and Kennedy

Modern Muze founder Zulay Henao is known for being the hostess with the mostest. However, it wasn’t always this way.

The actress and entrepreneur has thrown her fair share of soirees. From launch parties, birthdays, baby showers and retreats — she’s got it all down to a science. And when it comes to the holidays, she’s mastered the art of hacking the system to enjoy herself.

This holiday season, we’re sharing her nine hacks for running things smoothly, coquito in hand! You can thank us later.

Zulay, Kevin and Kennedy
Zulay Henao, Kennedy and Kevin Connolly

1. Quit the idea of perfection

From decorating to making enough empanadas, Henao reminds us we will fall short somewhere — and it’s okay.

“I think embracing that the holidays bring with it a lot of hectic energy, from late flights to last-minute guests…Christmas lights that decided to stop working on Noche Buena,” she says. “Releasing the idea that all has to be perfect and allowing some of that hectic Christmas energy to transmute to joy! I personally have had to reframe a lot in past years!”

2. Say adios to diets and restrictions

If you’ve been reducing yourself to crackers and water for the holidays, take a moment to set them aside for a few days. After all, you can’t let all the tamales, empanadas, lechón and moros go to waste. Can you?

“This is the best time of the year, I am not saying to completely get off track, but to enjoy all the amazing food our culture has to offer without shame or guilt,” Henao asserts.

3. Plan ahead

Planning will save you a lot of heartbreak, stress and panic during the holidays. If you are throwing a party, book vendors early, prepare your home for guests in advance, and save yourself last-minute stress with cleaning and sprucing.

“Create a music playlist etc.,” Henao says. “Delegate, you don’t have to do everything alone!”

4. Start shopping early

While it seems like you have plenty of time for shopping during the holidays, don’t leave things for the last minute. Check out our store for some great holiday gifts!


5. Set a budget— and stick to it!

Overspending is one of the greatest issues faced during the holidays, but it doesn’t have to be. Keep yourself accountable and remember that giving comes in various forms. Stick to thoughtful but useful gifts to ensure money well spent.


6. Tell your partner what you actually want for Christmas, don’t wait for them to guess

Magical thinking continues to be alive and well. Of course, for our partners and ourselves, this can be daunting.

“When figuring out the right gift if you’re in a new relationship or any relationship and feel like your partner needs a little push or help, give it,” Henao says. “I often hear from friends that they were expecting a certain gift and didn’t receive it. Speak up, even though it’s the season of giving, and most people want to give, we don’t always know what you want! I know what Kevin wants this year and that means, for me, zero stress.”


7. Let go of expectations and be open to receiving

Expectations often leave us disappointed. Especially when we want everything to go perfectly. This holiday season, let go of what you expect and open yourself up to receiving in all its forms. Be it love, gifts, or surprises, expect the unexpected.


8. Manifest

Muzas are big on manifesting! Henao suggests scripting your dreams out daily, “It’s such a magical time and such a great reset for the year ahead.”


9. Rest, hydrate and enjoy the coquito!

Finally, in case you need a little push to rest, this is your sign. Take this time to take it down a notch, nap, cuddle up next to your favorite people and of course— sip on the coquito.