After ten years of unsuccessful attempts, I finally gave birth to triplets at 48, and instead of congratulations, I received judgment from all sides. I’m 48 now, and six months ago, our three little ones were born. For my husband and me, this has been the greatest joy.

For the past ten years, I tried to get pregnant, but nothing worked. Doctors just shrugged, saying that having children should be done at a younger age. My family suggested we not waste money and adopt a child from foster care. But I dreamed of having my own baby, wanted to experience the joy of pregnancy, to carry and give birth myself.

In my youth, I never thought much about having children — my relationship with my first husband was very complicated. Matt and I married young, we were both twenty, and soon he started criticizing me, and eventually, he betrayed me. After dealing with that betrayal, it took me a long time to recover until I finally met my true love.

Chris was different from other men. He cared for me and genuinely wanted a serious relationship. It was with him that I felt the desire to become a mother. When I finally found out I was pregnant after another attempt, Chris and I were over the moon with happiness. Throughout the pregnancy, he supported me, was there for the birth, and bravely held my hand.

Having children changed our lives significantly, but unfortunately, many people aren’t shy about voicing their negativity. They think it’s inappropriate to have three babies at our age.

What should I do, and how can I respond to these critiques? I know it’s our decision, but it’s hard to ignore the judgment. Sometimes I wonder if I should stand up for myself or just let it go and focus on the happiness my children bring.