More and more people these days are becoming childfree by choice, in turn celebrating time, freedom, and opportunities they have reserved for themselves. Meanwhile, economists have pointed to the fact that the fertility rate has fallen every year since 2007, as the Great Recession made millennials put off child-rearing for years.
But in order to get a glimpse of what childfree life is really like, you have to look at what people who opt out of having babies have to say about it. So we looked at the corner of Reddit “Childfree,” which is a place for discussion of the childfree lifestyle.
With a whopping 1.4M members, it surely has a lot to say on this matter, so let’s see some arguments on living with no kids right below. Also, after you’re done, be sure to check out part 1 of the post right here.
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What Could Be More Important Than Creating Life?
Family Is What You Make
I Love Steve Hofstetter. Walter Is His Dog
This has nothing to do with having kids or not, everything with education. I always remind my children to be careful in the presence of any kind of animals, never scare them, be respectful.
To find out what people who choose not to have kids have to say about the childfree lifestyle, Bored Panda reached out to Amy Blackstone, professor of sociology at the University of Maine and the author of “Childlfree by Choice: The Movement Redefining Family & Creating a New Age of Independence.”
When asked if such a lifestyle is getting more popular nowadays, which it certainly feels like it, Amy said that it’s certainly more popular “in the sense that more people are aware of it as an option than ever before.”
According to the professor and book author, “That is largely thanks to the willingness of childfree people to speak out about their choice and of course to the decades-long work of reproductive justice advocates. Whether more people than in the past will ultimately remain childfree for their lifetimes remains to be seen.”
Been Waiting 20 Years For A Comeback Like This
I Can’t Believe This Is Still Even A Thing
Pug Slide (Found On Facebook)
“Certainly more millennials are currently childfree than were previous generations at their age, but there hasn't been a dramatic increase in lifetime childlessness,” she said and added that only “time will tell whether today's millennials are opting out of parenthood altogether or simply delaying it.”
There's a common misconception that parenthood defines us unlike anything else. Amy said that there are “good reasons that this misconception is so common. Almost from the moment we are born, we are taught that becoming a parent is one of the most important milestones of adulthood. For this reason, it makes sense that folks might think that parenthood is the be all, end all experience.”
Since They're Trying To Ban Abortion...
I guess according to the pious in the US, the foetus is an important member of society who needs to be protected and cherished. Until they are born. Beyond that point, they're on their own and on their way to contributing into the coffers of the top 1%.
Child Fees Should Be A Thing And Dogs Should Be Free
For The Childfree Motorist
However, “we know from all kinds of social science research that having kids is not required for living a complete, happy, and fulfilling life,” the professor explained and recommended everyone looking for the answers to read her illuminating book “Childfree By Choice.”
Just A Nice Quote I Read And Felt Like Sharing
Letter From An 85 Year Widow: My Childfree Experience And A Few Humble Opinions
I Swear
It’s hard to say whether opting not to have kids will stay popular with future generations. According to Amy, “it depends on what we mean by 'popular' but if what you're referring to is whether the idea that having—or not having—children is a choice, I'd say that yes, our awareness of that reality will continue to grow.”
It’s just that more and more people are speaking out about their choice not to have kids. “And thanks to their bravery in speaking out, we now know that parenthood is simply one of many paths available to us,” she concluded.
Think I Pissed Off My Obgyn
It's ridiculous how women are denied agency over THEIR OWN DAMNED BODY and men can just do whatever they want. I mean, men can even walk away from their wife and child, not file for (joint) custody, and most people are like 'ah, divorce, too bad'. When a woman walks away from her husband and child and doesn't want custody, all hell breaks lose and she's painted like an evil villain.
This story I hear so so so often. A guy wants a snip? Sure! A girl wants a snip? What does your husband feel about that... are you sure.. you will change your mind.. bla bla bla
To be fair, reversing a vasectomy is typically easier than reversing a tubal ligation, thevprocedure is easier and less invasive, and women have a lot higher regret rates. That's not to say that women should be denied care or that requiring a husband's consent (which some places apparently do) is good or valid. There should always be a risk/benefit discussion, but from what I understand, that is usually not done in favor of absurdly sexist suggestion that should have no place in a doctor's office.
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I had a doctor do this to me. Refused to do a hysterectomy. I have endometriosis and an autistic child with the next child having a better chance of having even more severe form of ASD. If it's my choice, it's my choice! Stop trying to convince women that they should wait in case they change their mind. We are fully capable of making our own decisions and, if we make a mistake, it's our problem to deal with! Stop trying to coddle us!
I'm so glad my gyn understands. She asked me about wanting children ONCE I told her no and she was like: okay, cool. Never asked again, never suggested I would/could change my mind. I really like her.
Why would you keep going back to a doctor who doesn't respect your bodily autonomy?
Sometimes it's the only choice, if you need specialised care. :(
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When my husband went and got his vasectomy they asked to to speak to me. I was surprised and when I sat down with the doctor and nurses they asked me "Are you ok with this?" I looked them dead in the eyes and said "HIS body HIS choice" and just continued to stare at them.
There is a case that has had some publicity here in the UK about a woman who has dreadful endometriosis. She has begged to have a hysterectomy but her GYN keeps refusing because she doesn't have children. She has already said so many times she doesn't want kids. That will never change for her. However, the facts are even if she did want kids her endometriosis is so severe the chances of her carrying one is very slim. The point of this post is that the NHS and the GYN would prefer to leave her to suffer in horrendous agony with severe endometriosis rather than perform the hysterectomy on the extremely small small chance she could get pregnant.... even though it would be unwanted if she did although very unlikely due to her health. Isn't that f****d up s**t right there?
We planned on having 2 kids, so we had 2 kids and had my tubes tied. I cannot tell you how many people winked and said that accidents happen. No. No, they don't. You can make the decision and take action to permanently prevent it. The look on their faces as I patiently explained this was priceless.
This is completely f*cked up. When a woman wants to have a sterilization that's her choice. No doctor has the right to make that decision for her. I don't get why she didn't change doctors.
Why was this dr so invested in her having kids? $$$? Was he unaware of the DIFFICULTY a woman who had a LEEP faces in not only getting pregnant, but staying pregnant, and the high risk of DEATH during delivery without medical intervention? And if she had cervical cancer, there is a high risk of a female descendant having it too? I never had HPV of any type, but had cancer because it was genetic.
In 1964 my mom already had 6 kids and they did not want to tie her tubes. They finally did.
This is a bad doctor. It is true that you could change your mind but once he told you and you're firm in your choice he should have done...
Why didn't you drop that fool doctor the first visit... I went with a female ... I wanted two boys had two boys got fixed after two boys ... she didn't ask questions she just listened and was accepting of my decisions... Women and young ladies... see a woman gynecologist even if it means you need to travel to find her... so much better than dealing with stupid old minded mentalities of men doctors....
I would have changed doctors after the 1st appointment, let alone 5 years!
So, a Christian baker can be sued for refusing to provide a specific service to a gay couple, but an OBGYN can't be sued for refusing to provide a specific service to a fertile woman? How does that work?
In Hungary you have to be at least 40 years old or have 3 kids in order to get your tubes tied or get a vasectomy. And even then they'll make you wait a whole year, because they want you to change your mind... so everyone just goes to Slovakia or Austria where you can get it done in 2 weeks without any issues.
That "someone agreed to do that when you don't have kids?" comment would have pissed me off to no end. Like there is a requirement to bring more people onto the planet which is already overpopulated?
I got SO lucky after I had my 2nd child. We had a girl and we had a boy so we decided that was good. We didn't want anymore. I was 21 when our son was born and had just moved back home. In Indiana I was refused a tubal. We get back to Texas and I see my new OB/GYN for the first time. He asks about plans for birth control after and o tell him I'd really like to have a tubal. He said alright, we'll have to schedule it for after but we can do that. At the time I didn't realize how hard it is for women to get tubal ligation.
I was also refused a sterilization many years ago despite the awful ovarian cysts I have. So instead they put me on permanent and continuous birth control instead. I have a new dr and an appt next week so maybe I can get the thermal ablation I've been looking for to get off these terrible meds.
I had a hysterectomy at 22 because of a mountain of problems. I should have had it done when I was 17 but then I wouldn’t be able to have BABIES. BEAUTIFUL BABIES! Finally after all the pain and medical procedures and more pain and issues I finally got a full hysterectomy. Boom pain gone. Funny how that works. No kids and happy. So much wasted time because they weren’t “comfortable” with taking away my chance at having children even when I repeatedly told them I DONT AND WONT HAVE CHILDREN!!!!! So annoying. I’m 39 now and still happy with my husband and with no kids. We have dogs and cats and each other. It’s perfect.
About 10 years ago, I had a hysterectomy. Turned out that my uterus was far more messed up than what was shown on imaging. After the hysterectomy, he talked about how it had been one of the most complicated ones he'd done but that he liked challenges. So far, so good. Then he breaks the "bad news" that he was unable to save my ovaries. He never asked me in the first place if I wanted them removed, and had he read my chart (or listened to me) he would have known that I've always ovulated irregularly. Further, he would have known that I throw up to the point of dehydration when I ovulate. I even had a female GP who I asked for years to send me to OB/GYN to get a hysterectomy. Damn assumptions doctors make about a woman's body.
I do have kids but went through hell to have them. Ended up with sever bleeding and pain after my son was born. I begged my doctor to do a hysterectomy and was denied because I was only 24 and would for sure want more kids. He also told me that he would need consent from my husband first before even considering it. Um no dumb as*ho*e that's not happening. My husband was on my side by the way. I just walked out of the appointment. Finally found a different doctor who was shocked I had carried both pregnancies to term and promised to schedule the procedure for as soon as possible.
It's not his job to force his agenda in to someone. He is there to protect their health and respect their wishes.
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Just as reversable as the vasectomy. Had a female friend who had it reversed after 8 years.
Load More Replies...I Wish More People Realized Just How Much A Bad Parent Can Mess Up Their Children
Welp. There It Is
Top Notch Product Review
Imagine That. Maybe One Day
Just One Simple Trick To Save Money
Saw This Meme And Thought You Guys Would Enjoy It, Too
Actress Jameela Jamil Celebrates Her Successful Cf Life, Shrugs Off Haters
CowboyHank, we understand and value your opinions. BUT! Abortion isn't murder. If it was, you could sue for it. If you believe abortion = bad, don't have one! simple as that! What you don't do is ruin a completely good post with your pro life bullshit. It's the same with others, don't ruin a good post with your pro- abortion bullshit. I am done with my angry Bored Panda rant!
The Double Standards Are Wild
I Think Someone Working In This Store Is Childfree
GF Wanted A Dog, I Didn’t. What Happens? We Got A Dog. Then GF Wants Kids, I Don’t
GREAT CHOICE! I'm happy to see a man who doesn't fall for the babytrap. Also happy he kept the dog, he's obviously the better choice.
Don't Do That
Goals
Louder For The People In The Back!
"Without Kids, Your Christmas Must Have Been So Boring"- My Sil
Is this isnt my Christmas with my significant other I dont want it
Truth Hurts
When Being Child Free Gets You Extra 40 Hours/Week Of Work
I don't get the 'you're salaried, so no compensation'. I'm salaried too (almost everyone is here), for 32 hours a week. If I need to work more than 32 hours, I get compensated for those extra hours. I mean, in what world does being salaried mean 'you are compensated for 40-168 hours a week'??
Wise Words
Is Anyone Else Thrilled To Not Have Kids Whenever They See/Hear One?
Wife Of 7 Years Left Because I Didn't Want Kids
He is definetly not the bad guy, his point of view was clear all the time
I Think We Can All Agree On This Post I Saw Today
I Got Pregnant After My Tubal Ligation And Doctors Are Treating It Like A Happy Miracle As I Sit Here Horrified
My Friend Sent This To Me [humor]
![My Friend Sent This To Me [humor]](https://static.boredpanda.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/914973973196296192-png__700.jpg "My Friend Sent This To Me [humor]")
Happy Birthday
Everyone: 'Have A Baby!' Me:
This. Is. Imporant
yes! a lot of cultures (like mine) are under the impression that getting married when you're 18 is normal....and for some reason, a 20 year old getting divorced is also considered quite normal
They Got Me - Had To Slow Down For This One
Okay, but hear me out. I hit that kid because he hit my dog he had it coming. /s
I Have A Lot Of Reasons For Not Wanting Kids, And The World Being On Fire Is Definitely Among Them
I Will Never Ever Ever Get Tired Of Silence
I'm Going To Print Out A Stack Of These And Hand Them Out To People Who Bingo Me
I am pushing 43. Have known my husband for almost 20 years. Never had kids because we dont want to. People still tell me I might change my mind and it is not too late. You cant win. Our families and closest friends have always supported our decision though.
"What Could Be Better Than Having Kids Then?"
"Being A Young Woman Without Kids Is A Privilege." No, It's An Active Decision
Posted By A Friend With A Few Kids On Facebook
My Bloodline Ends With Me
I'm 53. My Wife Is 60. We've Always Been Staunchly Childfree. Can I Tell You... It Only Gets Better
Life Is Gooooood
Great View From Here
Note: this post originally had 74 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.
I'm so happy to see that being childfree is finally becoming more normal and less of a taboo. Seeing more and more childfree stories on social media, news, sites like this and heard from famous people. It's good. People need to know there are choices. You don't have to have kids just because people act like it's normal.
Exactly. If you reeeeally want kids (and can afford them) then by all means, have them. But no one should be shamed for not wanting or having them.
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Just imagine how far people would get in life if they had the ability to keep their projections in check and just let people live however they see fit. Why does it matter so much if people choose to remain single and child-free? Let people breathe and let them live, shesh
The reason why child free postings tend to be so passive aggressive is because these people are FED UP with being asked why the heck they don't want kids
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Not wanting kids is cool. Don't have any, never will. I still celebrate mothers, though. And fathers. Tough, tough job
Having or not having kids is a personal choice. No one should judge you or ask you. And while someone can lead a very happy life with no kids, one can also do with kids. I would never ever change anything about my life and I have 3 wonderful children that are pure love and joy. I enjoy every second with them. And I also don't want to be made to feel guilty about it.
We enjoy going out for dinner a few times a month. My father-in-law once commented on this: "In our days, we didn't have the luxury of wasting all that money on eating out!" I'm so glad my husband simply replied with: "Thats because you choose to have children and mum choose to be a stay at home mum. Nothing wrong with people making different choices in different times."
I have two kids.. I had first at 35 and second at 39.. I decided to have them now because at this moment my husband and I were the same way. For years everybody asked "when will you have kids?" "When everybody will stop asking" ..when I hear these conversations I get angry and take the defense of those who do not want children .. for years I didn't wanted kids too and I understand what it means. Having children or not having children is an extremely personal choice. I wanted to have children, "when" and "why" only concern me and my partner and no one else, and not wanting children is exactly the same.. I feel like a straight person defending LGBT rights.. because it's just right..
I’m a single Dad who has a rather delightful ten year old daughter. She brings a ton of joy into my world. I have friends in their 30s, 40s & 50s who are all child free, we meet at gigs or pubs and I always know their reckless abandon with alcohol is not for me, here’s where it is different though, I love their devil-may-care attitude to life, some of it rubs off on me in a great way, I get to be Gavin, not Dad, I get to put the responsibilities aside and play at being childless every now and again. I’m properly pleased for my mates who’ve made the decision to not have children, they are living the lifestyle they choose, equally I love those who have chosen to have children. I’m in a new relationship and we’ve agreed that we both have the children we need in our lives, we will stick with those we have, we don’t need a child to prove we are in love or that we are committed to each other. That rules applies to everyone y’know?
As a nursery school teacher I'd wish for people to stop having kids just because they feel like they have to, or because 'they are cute'. More often than not these kids end up for nine hours in daycare, never fully able to really bond with their parents. And I am not talking about single parents, who have to work two jobs, but parents who just 'really, really wanted a child' but also don't want to give up their three yearly holiday trips or their precious free time. Having a kid means having tonmake compromises. If you are not mature enough to see that or willing to do that, don't have a child.
Can I say now that I don't want kids because I genuinely dislike children so intensely that the thought of having one around me makes me want to punch my own lights out.
I'm with you. I have a literal visceral response to the sound of kids -- makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up and I wince as if someone ran their fingernails across a blackboard.
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I am going to get slated for saying this, I just don't get these parents that rant about the planet, using its resources, wanting a brighter future for their children and then have 5+ children, buying them every toy, gadget etc going. Let their kids go feral, trespassing on others property, damaging other peoples property, creating another resource using consumer of the future and then moan at others saying ""Well if YOU had children then......"
As someone who has chosen to be child free, it's a little annoying to have people comment... but also... not a big deal. Like it's not a struggle to be child free.
I agree. If you can make your own choice then those questions don't matter. I think they matter more for people who want kids but are afraid to have to be confronted with monetary or biological reasons.
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Being Asian, it's normal to be asked this. And then the follow up about wanting to be with your children when you get old. Now being an older person, I ask them if they are being intrusive in their children's lives that way. None of them can answer without sounding selfish or admitting their children are merely retirement plans.
I have one kid and like I mentioned above I’m one and done. I completely understand and support why some people decide to be child free. Some people do not need to be parents and some just don’t want to be and that is ok. I honestly cannot stand the parents who look down on child free people and make their snarky comments about “you can’t be tired you don’t have a kid!!” For the longest I was child free and didn’t want one and those comments annoyed me so bad. I don’t understand why some people get personally offended by someone else’s choices, probably because they regret having a kid, like it mentioned above. Let people live how they want to. I also get annoyed by the people who give me s**t for only having one kid and then give their opinion on why only children are the worst.
Why do people care? No one is superior to others due to their having or lacking children. And none of their supposed perks are really only for either group.
If humans are fueling the climate change crisis, then out of control breeding is an issue. Humans are actively killing off entire species of innocent animals by the thousands (that is the worst possible thing I can think of). That's a problem; humanity is currently a huge problem. So bringing about more humans is a problem (unless you are living and coexisting in nature). Choosing to not have children to try to save humanity and other species is a morally correct decision. Choosing to bring another child into a horrible capitalist system is wrong unless they become a scientist or activist that works on stopping these catastrophic issues. Scientists say that climate change may have a tipping point where the damage is irreversible. Have you considered these things?
Load More Replies... It's funny how on one side childless people like to say - i have so much more money to spend on ME. - i can go travel the world and buy everything i want But on the other hand they blame parents for - being selfish - bringing another kid in this capitalist system and dying world
My 80+ year old neighbor gave us the best advice ever. She said "when people ask 'when are you having kids?', you just say 'we're trying'. It helps to look a little down when you say it. Then they'll be too nervous to ask again because they'll assume you're having "issues". Works like a charm. Now we're in our mid forties and haven't been asked since we got married in our twenties.
But that will never help normalize not wanting them. More people need to proudly respond "We have chosen not to have any" and subsequently respond to any "why" questions with "Why do you care?" or "Why do you believe we owe you an explanation" or "What makes you think it is your business?" Saying "we're trying" continues to hide the fact that many people just don't want them.
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But, little humans turn into adult humans. Animals are generally innocent.
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54 and child-free by choice. I never regretted my decision. I was never drawn to kids and knew, at age 12, that they were not for me and I not for them. I would have been a terrible mother. If you do want them, ask yourself why. Most of the reasons for wanting them are BS. Be honest. Do not make a small being unhappy.
As I said to a friend not even a week ago, "a child is an 18 year loan I'm not willing to take right now".
It could be much longer than 18 years. And if the child comes out handicapped, that is a full lifetime commitment.
Load More Replies... This is more like a child hating group who think having kids is disgusting. There's a difference between child free and child hating
So, you know each individual mind of the person that wrote these? You were in their head and heard exactly what they thought? You sound like a c-u-n-t. And you are definitely wrong.
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My son has decided to be cf and I never have nor ever would pressure him. His life , his choice
I was open to the idea of having kids - right up to the point that my ex-wife said she wanted one so she 'would have something to play with'. Now divorced - with NO kids.
i only got one reply to people who don't want kids. that's your choice and if that makes you happy, i'll be happy too you don't have kids.
My parents came to the conclusion years ago the only way they were getting grandkids out of me was if they came out with four feet, fur and whiskers… My theory was… I get pregnant with a litter of kittens, I make world news and I’m set for life with selling the story rights etc…. Also, if my kids get pregnant… I can sell the grandchildren!
I didn't like some of these, I don't put down any bodies choice to not have kids, I mean more like more power to you! But some of these were putting down people that had kids. I mean do you want the Human Race to end? I get so tired of people asking me if I am dating again, after I have had two significant partners pass away. So yas queen, I probably will never date again!
Ever notice how these "have kids" people (along with pro-lifers) NEVER adopt any? How about pro-the-lives-already here?
This discussion is awesome. I'm childfree and never wanted kids. No, I don't hate kids, I have niece and nephews that I love dearly. I'll even babysit friends' kids on occasion! But, having or not having kids is a choice and I chose not to have any. I've been told that I missed out on a lot by not having them, and I agree. Haven't ever had postpartum depression, never had to scrounge to pay for daycare or beg people to watch my kids. Never had to feel selfish for taking "me time" to decompress. I know myself, I would not be a happy parent. Those who don't choose to be honest with themselves about not wanting kids often end up becoming resentful, depressed, uncaring or even worse, abusive to their kids. Know yourself and choose what's right for you.
It's a choice! We ALL need to respect one another's choices for their own lives. Every.Single.Time. It's the only way for everyone to be happy!
Should we respect the choice of big polluters? If people are actively destroying the environment for future generations? If people destroy the only environment human beings can survive in?
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I had an endometriosis surgery a few years ago; the day after the doc goes: endometriosis will probably come back, the EASIEST way to avoid it would be to get pregnant, quickly. I sat there, in my late 30s, not wanting kids, not even wanting a husband and wondered about the kindest way to tell him: HELL NO
I've got three adult kids and regret not one single thing. But I crack up everytime someone noticing and start to explain automatically why they don't want any children. I don't even ask for that, so stop your explanation. Joy of life happens in so many ways I made my decision and you made yours so we are all fine with that.
I’m pregnant for the first time and am super miserable because I realize my life is basically over. All my traveling plans? Gone. Sleeping in? Gone. Having extra money to just throw away on myself? Also gone. If you don’t want kids good for you. They are a huge financial burden and will change your life in ways that will likely lower your happiness.
Just because you are having kids does not mean your life is over . Are they going to consume alot of time in your life yes bit you also need to prioritize making time for you and your partner to still go out and he yourselves without your kids and that is not being selfish. To make yourself the best parent you can be sometimes means saying no or doing something you want to do casue when you are at your best you parent your best. Your child should never make your life not happy .
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I understand people who for whatever reason don't want or can't have children. But the blatant haltered towards the parents and even the children is baffling. To the point that one person referred to parents as 'breeders' in her post. And the aversion toward children, I will never understand. What did the innocent child ever do to you to hate him/her so much? Okay, enjoy your childfree life and let us parents enjoy our kids. To each their own. Before the hateful replies start, let me clarify something. I've been in the childfree boat as well. I found myself still single at 35 and the questions from men started, when you're going to have kids, it's about time you marry had kids. No, sorry, I will not be a single mother. I would not deny my kid(s) his father. The right man arrived shortly after and I've done all of that. And yes, there were nights where I rocked the baby to sleep and wondered why I needed this. He is now 17 years old and very smart, responsible young man.
My sister and I both didn't want kids. There is a strong history of mental health issues in our family and we didn't want to subject any kids we might have to that torture. Both my cousins don't have children either. I did accidentally get pregnant when I was 19 years old (condom and pill failure, I'm just that unlucky) and I literally had to threaten to kill myself in order to get an abortion. My mental health was horrendous at the time and I had taken an overdose whilst pregnant (unknown by me at the time) so doctors agreed with me that I was at risk of suicide if I was made to carry to term. Whilst it was the most horrific experience I've ever been through, it was still the right one for me. I still suffer with mental health issues and can barely look after myself, let alone a baby.
Had a customer at work ask me if I have a wife and kids. I asked him “do I look stupid?” That was the end of that discussion.
I read comment number 1 and quit. Good grief people I may have to stop looking at this. It's becoming so, so anti everything. Seriously....everything!
I am going to back you up on this, with the exception of abortion; the woman may not have had a choice in the pregnancy due to assault, poor education, etc. I am firm believer in a woman's right to control of her body. On the flip side, as a male, my right to choose was taken from me by an ex who tried to "save" the relationship. I was far to messed up to raise a child at that point in life, not to mention unemployment and poor job prospects. I will state that after years of therapy, improved financial circumstance, and general maturity I would be happy to become a parent. The problems is that by the time many of us are finacially secure and mature enough to be parents, we have aged-out.
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I think it's ok to have these kinds of posts, since there are also plenty of posts about children as well. But the content shouldn't be so heavily focused on bashing parents and pretending childfree people are the happiest of all. I have so many friends with kids and 99% of them happy as can be. I know very, very few people who seem to regret having kids and it's usually ones who were pushed into parenthood "because that's just what you do". So I'm all for normalising being childfree, especially because women can be denied medical care such as sterilisation, because their doctors think they will change their minds. But please stop competing over who is happier (same for parents). Live your life as you see fit and let others do the same.
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That would save the planet. there's how many humans? Too many anyway. Heck, with 10% of what we have now it would be a lot better.
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Childfree people won't have children. And wishing kids on people who want them in hopes of them wanting them after they get them is just RIDICULOUS! How can you want to create a living, breathing HUMAN BEING with people who don't want it? You're sick.
Load More Replies... I'm so happy to see that being childfree is finally becoming more normal and less of a taboo. Seeing more and more childfree stories on social media, news, sites like this and heard from famous people. It's good. People need to know there are choices. You don't have to have kids just because people act like it's normal.
Exactly. If you reeeeally want kids (and can afford them) then by all means, have them. But no one should be shamed for not wanting or having them.
Load More Replies... Just imagine how far people would get in life if they had the ability to keep their projections in check and just let people live however they see fit. Why does it matter so much if people choose to remain single and child-free? Let people breathe and let them live, shesh
The reason why child free postings tend to be so passive aggressive is because these people are FED UP with being asked why the heck they don't want kids
Load More Replies... Not wanting kids is cool. Don't have any, never will. I still celebrate mothers, though. And fathers. Tough, tough job
Having or not having kids is a personal choice. No one should judge you or ask you. And while someone can lead a very happy life with no kids, one can also do with kids. I would never ever change anything about my life and I have 3 wonderful children that are pure love and joy. I enjoy every second with them. And I also don't want to be made to feel guilty about it.
We enjoy going out for dinner a few times a month. My father-in-law once commented on this: "In our days, we didn't have the luxury of wasting all that money on eating out!" I'm so glad my husband simply replied with: "Thats because you choose to have children and mum choose to be a stay at home mum. Nothing wrong with people making different choices in different times."
I have two kids.. I had first at 35 and second at 39.. I decided to have them now because at this moment my husband and I were the same way. For years everybody asked "when will you have kids?" "When everybody will stop asking" ..when I hear these conversations I get angry and take the defense of those who do not want children .. for years I didn't wanted kids too and I understand what it means. Having children or not having children is an extremely personal choice. I wanted to have children, "when" and "why" only concern me and my partner and no one else, and not wanting children is exactly the same.. I feel like a straight person defending LGBT rights.. because it's just right..
I’m a single Dad who has a rather delightful ten year old daughter. She brings a ton of joy into my world. I have friends in their 30s, 40s & 50s who are all child free, we meet at gigs or pubs and I always know their reckless abandon with alcohol is not for me, here’s where it is different though, I love their devil-may-care attitude to life, some of it rubs off on me in a great way, I get to be Gavin, not Dad, I get to put the responsibilities aside and play at being childless every now and again. I’m properly pleased for my mates who’ve made the decision to not have children, they are living the lifestyle they choose, equally I love those who have chosen to have children. I’m in a new relationship and we’ve agreed that we both have the children we need in our lives, we will stick with those we have, we don’t need a child to prove we are in love or that we are committed to each other. That rules applies to everyone y’know?
As a nursery school teacher I'd wish for people to stop having kids just because they feel like they have to, or because 'they are cute'. More often than not these kids end up for nine hours in daycare, never fully able to really bond with their parents. And I am not talking about single parents, who have to work two jobs, but parents who just 'really, really wanted a child' but also don't want to give up their three yearly holiday trips or their precious free time. Having a kid means having tonmake compromises. If you are not mature enough to see that or willing to do that, don't have a child.
Can I say now that I don't want kids because I genuinely dislike children so intensely that the thought of having one around me makes me want to punch my own lights out.
I'm with you. I have a literal visceral response to the sound of kids -- makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up and I wince as if someone ran their fingernails across a blackboard.
Load More Replies... I am going to get slated for saying this, I just don't get these parents that rant about the planet, using its resources, wanting a brighter future for their children and then have 5+ children, buying them every toy, gadget etc going. Let their kids go feral, trespassing on others property, damaging other peoples property, creating another resource using consumer of the future and then moan at others saying ""Well if YOU had children then......"
As someone who has chosen to be child free, it's a little annoying to have people comment... but also... not a big deal. Like it's not a struggle to be child free.
I agree. If you can make your own choice then those questions don't matter. I think they matter more for people who want kids but are afraid to have to be confronted with monetary or biological reasons.
Load More Replies... Being Asian, it's normal to be asked this. And then the follow up about wanting to be with your children when you get old. Now being an older person, I ask them if they are being intrusive in their children's lives that way. None of them can answer without sounding selfish or admitting their children are merely retirement plans.
I have one kid and like I mentioned above I’m one and done. I completely understand and support why some people decide to be child free. Some people do not need to be parents and some just don’t want to be and that is ok. I honestly cannot stand the parents who look down on child free people and make their snarky comments about “you can’t be tired you don’t have a kid!!” For the longest I was child free and didn’t want one and those comments annoyed me so bad. I don’t understand why some people get personally offended by someone else’s choices, probably because they regret having a kid, like it mentioned above. Let people live how they want to. I also get annoyed by the people who give me s**t for only having one kid and then give their opinion on why only children are the worst.
Why do people care? No one is superior to others due to their having or lacking children. And none of their supposed perks are really only for either group.
If humans are fueling the climate change crisis, then out of control breeding is an issue. Humans are actively killing off entire species of innocent animals by the thousands (that is the worst possible thing I can think of). That's a problem; humanity is currently a huge problem. So bringing about more humans is a problem (unless you are living and coexisting in nature). Choosing to not have children to try to save humanity and other species is a morally correct decision. Choosing to bring another child into a horrible capitalist system is wrong unless they become a scientist or activist that works on stopping these catastrophic issues. Scientists say that climate change may have a tipping point where the damage is irreversible. Have you considered these things?
Load More Replies... It's funny how on one side childless people like to say - i have so much more money to spend on ME. - i can go travel the world and buy everything i want But on the other hand they blame parents for - being selfish - bringing another kid in this capitalist system and dying world
My 80+ year old neighbor gave us the best advice ever. She said "when people ask 'when are you having kids?', you just say 'we're trying'. It helps to look a little down when you say it. Then they'll be too nervous to ask again because they'll assume you're having "issues". Works like a charm. Now we're in our mid forties and haven't been asked since we got married in our twenties.
But that will never help normalize not wanting them. More people need to proudly respond "We have chosen not to have any" and subsequently respond to any "why" questions with "Why do you care?" or "Why do you believe we owe you an explanation" or "What makes you think it is your business?" Saying "we're trying" continues to hide the fact that many people just don't want them.
Load More Replies... But, little humans turn into adult humans. Animals are generally innocent.
Load More Replies... 54 and child-free by choice. I never regretted my decision. I was never drawn to kids and knew, at age 12, that they were not for me and I not for them. I would have been a terrible mother. If you do want them, ask yourself why. Most of the reasons for wanting them are BS. Be honest. Do not make a small being unhappy.
As I said to a friend not even a week ago, "a child is an 18 year loan I'm not willing to take right now".
It could be much longer than 18 years. And if the child comes out handicapped, that is a full lifetime commitment.
Load More Replies... This is more like a child hating group who think having kids is disgusting. There's a difference between child free and child hating
So, you know each individual mind of the person that wrote these? You were in their head and heard exactly what they thought? You sound like a c-u-n-t. And you are definitely wrong.
Load More Replies... My son has decided to be cf and I never have nor ever would pressure him. His life , his choice
I was open to the idea of having kids - right up to the point that my ex-wife said she wanted one so she 'would have something to play with'. Now divorced - with NO kids.
i only got one reply to people who don't want kids. that's your choice and if that makes you happy, i'll be happy too you don't have kids.
My parents came to the conclusion years ago the only way they were getting grandkids out of me was if they came out with four feet, fur and whiskers… My theory was… I get pregnant with a litter of kittens, I make world news and I’m set for life with selling the story rights etc…. Also, if my kids get pregnant… I can sell the grandchildren!
I didn't like some of these, I don't put down any bodies choice to not have kids, I mean more like more power to you! But some of these were putting down people that had kids. I mean do you want the Human Race to end? I get so tired of people asking me if I am dating again, after I have had two significant partners pass away. So yas queen, I probably will never date again!
Ever notice how these "have kids" people (along with pro-lifers) NEVER adopt any? How about pro-the-lives-already here?
This discussion is awesome. I'm childfree and never wanted kids. No, I don't hate kids, I have niece and nephews that I love dearly. I'll even babysit friends' kids on occasion! But, having or not having kids is a choice and I chose not to have any. I've been told that I missed out on a lot by not having them, and I agree. Haven't ever had postpartum depression, never had to scrounge to pay for daycare or beg people to watch my kids. Never had to feel selfish for taking "me time" to decompress. I know myself, I would not be a happy parent. Those who don't choose to be honest with themselves about not wanting kids often end up becoming resentful, depressed, uncaring or even worse, abusive to their kids. Know yourself and choose what's right for you.
It's a choice! We ALL need to respect one another's choices for their own lives. Every.Single.Time. It's the only way for everyone to be happy!
Should we respect the choice of big polluters? If people are actively destroying the environment for future generations? If people destroy the only environment human beings can survive in?
Load More Replies... I had an endometriosis surgery a few years ago; the day after the doc goes: endometriosis will probably come back, the EASIEST way to avoid it would be to get pregnant, quickly. I sat there, in my late 30s, not wanting kids, not even wanting a husband and wondered about the kindest way to tell him: HELL NO
I've got three adult kids and regret not one single thing. But I crack up everytime someone noticing and start to explain automatically why they don't want any children. I don't even ask for that, so stop your explanation. Joy of life happens in so many ways I made my decision and you made yours so we are all fine with that.
I’m pregnant for the first time and am super miserable because I realize my life is basically over. All my traveling plans? Gone. Sleeping in? Gone. Having extra money to just throw away on myself? Also gone. If you don’t want kids good for you. They are a huge financial burden and will change your life in ways that will likely lower your happiness.
Just because you are having kids does not mean your life is over . Are they going to consume alot of time in your life yes bit you also need to prioritize making time for you and your partner to still go out and he yourselves without your kids and that is not being selfish. To make yourself the best parent you can be sometimes means saying no or doing something you want to do casue when you are at your best you parent your best. Your child should never make your life not happy .
Load More Replies... I understand people who for whatever reason don't want or can't have children. But the blatant haltered towards the parents and even the children is baffling. To the point that one person referred to parents as 'breeders' in her post. And the aversion toward children, I will never understand. What did the innocent child ever do to you to hate him/her so much? Okay, enjoy your childfree life and let us parents enjoy our kids. To each their own. Before the hateful replies start, let me clarify something. I've been in the childfree boat as well. I found myself still single at 35 and the questions from men started, when you're going to have kids, it's about time you marry had kids. No, sorry, I will not be a single mother. I would not deny my kid(s) his father. The right man arrived shortly after and I've done all of that. And yes, there were nights where I rocked the baby to sleep and wondered why I needed this. He is now 17 years old and very smart, responsible young man.
My sister and I both didn't want kids. There is a strong history of mental health issues in our family and we didn't want to subject any kids we might have to that torture. Both my cousins don't have children either. I did accidentally get pregnant when I was 19 years old (condom and pill failure, I'm just that unlucky) and I literally had to threaten to kill myself in order to get an abortion. My mental health was horrendous at the time and I had taken an overdose whilst pregnant (unknown by me at the time) so doctors agreed with me that I was at risk of suicide if I was made to carry to term. Whilst it was the most horrific experience I've ever been through, it was still the right one for me. I still suffer with mental health issues and can barely look after myself, let alone a baby.
Had a customer at work ask me if I have a wife and kids. I asked him “do I look stupid?” That was the end of that discussion.
I read comment number 1 and quit. Good grief people I may have to stop looking at this. It's becoming so, so anti everything. Seriously....everything!
I am going to back you up on this, with the exception of abortion; the woman may not have had a choice in the pregnancy due to assault, poor education, etc. I am firm believer in a woman's right to control of her body. On the flip side, as a male, my right to choose was taken from me by an ex who tried to "save" the relationship. I was far to messed up to raise a child at that point in life, not to mention unemployment and poor job prospects. I will state that after years of therapy, improved financial circumstance, and general maturity I would be happy to become a parent. The problems is that by the time many of us are finacially secure and mature enough to be parents, we have aged-out.
Load More Replies... I think it's ok to have these kinds of posts, since there are also plenty of posts about children as well. But the content shouldn't be so heavily focused on bashing parents and pretending childfree people are the happiest of all. I have so many friends with kids and 99% of them happy as can be. I know very, very few people who seem to regret having kids and it's usually ones who were pushed into parenthood "because that's just what you do". So I'm all for normalising being childfree, especially because women can be denied medical care such as sterilisation, because their doctors think they will change their minds. But please stop competing over who is happier (same for parents). Live your life as you see fit and let others do the same.
Load More Replies... That would save the planet. there's how many humans? Too many anyway. Heck, with 10% of what we have now it would be a lot better.
Load More Replies... Childfree people won't have children. And wishing kids on people who want them in hopes of them wanting them after they get them is just RIDICULOUS! How can you want to create a living, breathing HUMAN BEING with people who don't want it? You're sick.
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