How to Decide to Have Children

Having children is a big decision to make as it impacts the rest of your life. It can be the best decision in the world, and a bit overwhelming to some. For women, experiencing pregnancy can add apprehension to the mix, but the decision is an important one for both men and women. Consider your relationship, desires from your life, level of happiness, age and finances when deciding to have children.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask yourself why you would like to have children, if you feel that you do. If you've always had desire to parent and love children, the decision may be a simple one for you. If you feel having a child will make you happy, fill a void or save your relationship, consider these as red flags. You never want to regret having children for the wrong reasons.

    • 2

      Consider your relationship. Does it provide a strong foundation supportive of bringing a child into the world? Strong relationships require content inviduals who have both independence and the comfort of a stable partner. Planning a family once you've established a strong relationship is vital to your family's future.

    • 3

      Consider your health. As a potential parent, ask your physician what should be considered should you want to start a family. If you're female, there may be more items to consider.

    • 4

      Assess your current lifestyle. Are you and your mate content sharing a life with just the two of you? Are you ready for something more, or are you happy with life just the way it is? Comtemplate the ways your life will change with a child in the picture, and determine how those changes make you feel.

    • 5

      Consider your age and that of your partner. If there are any health risks at your age regarding pregnancy, think about those risks. Think about the energy required to raise a child, and if this scenario is a positive one to you as you get older.

    • 6

      Consider finances and how the child would be taken care of once born. Would daycare be required? Would one parent stay at home?

    • 7

      Talk to your mate about how each of you sees life as your relationship moves forward. If either one of you has serious doubts, explore those in more detail. Everyone gets nervous about becoming a parent, but extreme anxiety can be a sign that parenting may not be the best route.

    • 8

      Never let pressure or others' expectations make decisions for you. Many couples find that, especially after a marriage, family and friends ask when the first bundle of joy will arrive. Children aren't always an assumed step for couples. If you're happy without children, you deserve to enjoy that happiness without added pressure.

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