At 45, Madeleine West was expecting to face the challenges of perimenopause—until she learned she was actually expecting baby #7! In a delightful twist that could easily be a storyline from her days on Neighbours, the actress, podcaster, and author shared her surprising news with her followers, leaving them buzzing with excitement.
Her humorous social media post, where she quipped, ‘Whoops! Thought it was perimenopause. I thought WRONG,’ quickly went viral, dispelling any notions that her changing body was simply a sign of the transition to menopause. Instead, West embraced the surprise with warmth and humour, affectionately referring to her baby as #007, a playful nod to her growing family.
The announcement was met with a wave of support and congratulations from celebrities and fans alike. Australian model and actress Megan Gale chimed in with a ‘Just beautiful,’ while TV presenter Jo Stanley praised West as a ‘Glorious mama!! You are magnificent.’ Musician Chantelle Delaney Sinclair expressed joy at the news, highlighting the lucky baby’s future with a loving mother and six siblings.
West’s candid post also touched on the topic of later-in-life parenting, a subject she feels isn’t discussed enough. ‘I don’t have much more to say right now, but I’ve noticed I don’t hear much about older parents. 😂 I know you must be out there. Just seems we are invisible,’ she wrote, inviting her followers to share their own experiences and advice.
The challenge of gearing up for a new baby after having given away all the previous baby essentials is real, and West humorously pleaded for help navigating the ‘terrifying new world of contraptions’ that modern parenting brings.
Madeleine West, who shares six children – Phoenix, Hendrix, Xanthe, Xascha, Xalia, and Margaux – with her ex-partner, celebrity chef Shannon Bennett, is no stranger to the demands of a large family. Yet, the news of a seventh addition is a heartwarming reminder that life can surprise us at any age.
Madeleine West’s unexpected pregnancy news is a beautiful testament to life’s unpredictability. As she prepares for her new arrival, we’re reminded of the boundless capacity for love and the enduring spirit of family, no matter the age. Congratulations, Madeleine, and here’s to the adventures that await with baby #007!
Whether you’re a parent in your 40s or beyond, Madeleine’s story reminds us that family can surprise us at any age. Have you experienced the joys and challenges of later-in-life parenting? Share your story in the comments below!
