15 Things A Woman Should Consider Before Having Children

Moms deeply enjoy caring for their children, a rewarding yet unending job that brings immense fulfillment. However, many matriarchs led vibrant lives filled with adventure, travel, and success before embracing motherhood. Some argue that these experiences are crucial before taking on the ultimate role of being a mother. Here are some things a woman should consider before having kids.

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1. Establish Financial Stability

With the average cost of childcare varying significantly, prices can range from $4,810 ($5,357 in 2022 dollars) for home-based care for school-age children in smaller counties to $15,417 ($17,171 in 2022 dollars) for infant center-based care in very large counties, according to the U.S. Department Of Labor. Given these figures, it’s essential to create a budget, as childcare expenses can represent between 8% and 19.3% of median family income per child.

Create a detailed budget that accounts for current expenses and projected costs of raising children, including healthcare, education, and childcare. Consider setting up a dedicated savings account for future family needs. Planning ahead can help you manage these costs effectively and ensure that you’re prepared for the financial commitment of having children.

2. Prioritize Health

Schedule a comprehensive health check-up and address any medical concerns. Focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients, staying active with regular exercise, and managing stress through practices like yoga or meditation to ensure physical and mental well-being. Shanel, a mother of one from Brooklyn, shared that maintaining regular physical activity would have helped her stay active and strong enough to keep up with her energetic daughter.  

“I wish I had more energy to keep up with my baby. That’s something I’m working on regularly now that she’s here,” she told MadameNoire.

3. Complete Education or Career Goals

If you’re pursuing a degree or professional certification, aim to complete it before starting a family. This can enhance your career prospects and provide a more stable environment for children. Shauna, a mother based in New York City told Parade, that she worked an 80-hour work week as a lawyer before she welcomed children. 

“I took on the biggest cases, worked insane hours, made a lot of money and really moved up the ladder. Then when I had kids, I decided to be a stay-at-home mom. I felt like I was ready for a new phase in my life,” she added.