BECOMING A MOTHER AFTER 35 YEARS OF AGE: WOMEN'S PERCEPTIONS FROM THE BACKLANDS OF PERNAMBUCO ABOUT THEIR SELF-IMAGE

Abstract

This article sought to understand how motherhood impacts the self-image of women who had their first pregnancy late in life in the Sertão region of Pernambuco. The study is qualitative in nature and used semi-structured interviews based on phenomenology and Bardin's content analysis. As a result, among the factors that impact the postponement of motherhood, the search for a stable relationship, financial stability and an academic/professional career were frequently cited. Regarding self-image during pregnancy, two participants reported a positive experience and the other three reported a negative impact on self-image. After giving birth, the impact on self-image is seen as negative due to sleep deprivation, lack of support network, changes in the body, the feeling of constant fatigue and loss of identity. All reported a good relationship with their children. Four of the five mothers stated that they were satisfied with late motherhood. Thus, it is clear that the narratives about self-image and late motherhood are diverse, reflecting the specific experiences of each woman and their stories.