**Essex Mother Dismisses Criticism Over Parenthood at 47, Says Age Makes Her a ‘Better Mum’**
A mother from Essex, who became pregnant unexpectedly at 46 and gave birth at 47, says she is thriving in her role as an older parent—and has little time for naysayers questioning her decision. Samantha Crammond, now 47, recently welcomed her daughter, Elvie, into the world, and insists she is embracing motherhood with more wisdom, patience, and self-assurance than she could have managed in earlier decades.
Samantha’s journey into later-life parenting began with a surprise twist. She already had her first child, Zephyr, at 43, and assumed her days of nappies and night feeds were behind her. But on her 46th birthday, a shopping trip to Tesco triggered a gut instinct. “I went to get breakfast with my partner Andy and picked up a pregnancy test on a whim,” she recalled. The positive result, discovered in the store’s toilet, left her exhilarated but cautious.
Having previously suffered a miscarriage, Samantha chose to temper her excitement, awaiting a full battery of medical tests before allowing herself to fully celebrate. Throughout her pregnancy, she remained uninterested in external judgments about her age or perceived selfishness. “I know people have opinions about older mums, but frankly it doesn’t faze me,” Samantha said, describing herself as “young at heart”.
Elvie was delivered via a planned C-section in December 2024, weighing 8.8lbs. Samantha notes that while being an older mother presents physical challenges, she finds her outlook markedly improved compared to how she felt in her twenties. “I’ve had my years travelling, partying, and exploring the world—now I’m ready to focus on my family,” she explained. “I’m more patient and mentally equipped now, though I can’t deny my back, knees and arms feel the strain!”
While some might assume Samantha’s choice would be overshadowed by concerns over judgement at the school gates or assumptions about her parenting, she dismisses such notions. “I really couldn’t care less what other parents think. I’m just content to be here with my children and enjoy them,” she said. She also points out that being present and calm matters far more to her than being the youngest mum in a playgroup.
Samantha’s most recent pregnancy did not come without its difficulties. She was classified as high-risk, coping with complications such as an underactive thyroid and gestational diabetes. At one stage, fluid accumulated around her lungs, requiring regular insulin injections and close monitoring. Ultimately, when Elvie was delivered at 37 weeks, doctors removed over a litre and a half of excess fluid during the operation. “It was difficult and I didn’t enjoy being pregnant,” Samantha admitted. “But that experience doesn’t define motherhood for me.”
With two young children at home, Samantha has considered the impact her age might have as they grow up, including the reality that she will be 65 when Elvie turns 18. She confesses to occasional moments of reflection. “The main reason we decided to have another baby was so Zephyr wouldn’t be an only child, even though we knew we’d be older parents,” she noted. “Everyone’s entitled to their view, but I won’t let that change how I live my life.”
Samantha believes that maternal age has made her a stronger and more attentive parent. “I’m definitely a better mother now than I could’ve been in my twenties. It’s not about chasing youth or fitting in—it’s about being steady, available, and able to enjoy the little moments without unnecessary worries,” she explained. “I’ve stopped sweating the small stuff.”
Reflecting on her life’s journey, Samantha shares that parenthood at this stage feels like a natural fit. “Where once I wanted to be out and about, now my happiness is absolutely at home. I’ve found contentment in ways I couldn’t have imagined before,” she reflected. She hopes her story might reassure others facing judgement about their parenting choices or family circumstances.
Samantha’s perspective encapsulates a wider shift in society, where perceptions of motherhood and age are frequently challenged. Her story serves as a reminder that parenting is deeply personal, and there is no singular ‘right time’ to raise a family. For Samantha, stepping into motherhood later in life has brought not just new challenges but also unexpected joy and a renewed sense of purpose.