Besides dealing with physiological problems and hormonal changes, you face several psychological issues.

Generation Gap

A 25-year age gap is wide enough. A 40-year gap seems like eternity. Trivial issues such as technology, western influences, a daily lifestyle can complicate life for both you and your child.

"It is often difficult to distribute my time between my two children. They have very different needs and I'm torn between shopping trips and kiddie birthday parties," says Lizette Reynolds, homemaker. Lizzete conceived her second child at the age of 35. There is a 10-year age gap between her two children.

Round Two? 

If this isn't your first child, then try and learn from previous experiences.

"I gained a lot of experience with the first child. I could differentiate between wrong and right. My son is 25 and my daughter is 16; they get along really well and give each other the required space. I run my business from home, so it was easier for me manage between work and home," says Noreen Coelho, Bridal Dressmaker.

Physical Changes

Even as you reach menopause, your toddler will still need you. This will put a lot of strain on you physically and mentally. Midnight feeds and colic cries are easier to cope with in your twenties.

Taking your kid for various hobby classes, running around the mall and organising your life all over is very challenging. "Most of the time when an older mother is unable to give time to her child, guilt creeps in and that leads to constant unwanted stress," says Nirmala Rao, Psychiatrist.

Your body adapts to a typical lifestyle and a sudden change can lead to a few health problems.

Social Circle

Your social circle usually consists of friends your age who are going through similar stages in life. So you may feel a little out of place when you are all by yourself carrying out the duties of a young mom.

You might also be unable to attend social gatherings and may feel a sense of alienation from women your age.

Finances

Technically if you are older you are financially more stable in comparison to the young couples. But Nigama Mascarenhes, Family Counsellor disagrees, "When you are younger you have ample time to plan for your child and save up for a higher education."

Support Systems

When you are in tour twenties, your parents are younger too and able to share your responsibilities. At 40, you will have to take care of aging parents as well as raise a kid.

Help!

The most obvious solution is to avoid a late pregnancy. But that might not always be possible. In such cases here is what you can do.

• If it is your second child, then involve the older one. Handover high energy responsibilities such as trips to the park, teaching her to cycle, etc.
  
  
• Try to perceive the things you do with your child as a fun activity. Abstain from fretting and comparing yourself to the younger mothers.
  
  
• Do not label yourself as old. Take up an activity, even if it is Yoga, to keep you fit and boost your energy levels.

If it is your second child, you might not be as excited. But try and enjoy the parenting cycle as much as possible.