A woman has become a mum at 47 after mistaking the early signs of pregnancy for menopause.
Tania Behrns closed the door on becoming a parent aged 44 as she believed she was 'too old' to fall pregnant.
Three years later, she missed her period just six weeks into a new relationship with her ex-partner.
The beauty therapist from Christchurch, New Zealand, automatically assumed she was going through the menopause until a test revealed two lines.
Now 48, she is a proud mum to one-year-old Anastasia Bracken.
"I have always been career-focussed so I accepted that I was never going to be a mum by the time I reached 44," Tania said.
"A few years later, I was dating someone for a total of seven weeks and missed a period.
"I was suddenly super tired all of the time but I wasn't worried at all. I assumed menopause had started but my friend persuaded me to take a pregnancy test.
"I only bought it to humour her as I didn't think it would be possible to naturally conceive in my late forties."
Tania was shocked to see two lines but doubted she would be able to carry the baby full term.
She said: "My initial thoughts were about work, I was worried about letting my clients down as I wanted to confirm the result with a doctor.
"I couldn't believe I was pregnant and I certainly didn't think the baby would stick.
"I was in disbelief until 12 weeks as I didn't think it was possible for someone my age to have a baby."
She adds: "The first trimester was really scary. I thought I would miscarry because of my age and worried about the baby having Down Syndrome.
"There was a lot of fear and uncertainty. I was finally able to relax when the results confirmed my baby was healthy.
"I went on to have a perfect pregnancy, I loved being pregnant. My skin was glowing and I felt great."
Tania decided to have an elective c-section at 39 weeks and Anastasia was born on May 19 weighing 6lb 6oz.
She adds: "I was so emotional, it was surreal seeing this little baby for the first time.
"She was perfection, I knew she was a miracle. I didn't know anything about motherhood but I am learning along the way.
"We are a team, she is the happiest baby and so chilled."
Tania and Anastasia's dad gave a relationship a go but it didn't work out.
She adds: "As a single mum, it is difficult to manage my time. I like to work and be there for my clients so it can be hard to juggle mum life and my career.
"I now work limited hours, Anastasia gets a lot of one on one time with me. She is my first priority.
"I am very grateful to have a good balance."
Whilst most people were thrilled for Tania, some questioned why she would want to bring a child into the world at her age.
She said: "I haven't received any negative comments to my face but I know some people have wondered why I would have a baby in my late forties.
"But why wouldn't I? A termination wasn't even an option.
"I am proof that whatever is meant for us, will happen. Anastasia is a true miracle."
