5 Things to Consider Before Starting a Family

Some individuals are certain that they want children and are prepared to make the adjustments necessary to become parents. Others may be hesitant, for a number of reasons. Whether you’ve always wanted children or have recently considered expanding your family, having a child will change your lifestyle and family dynamics.

Before you make a decision about expanding your family it’s important to consider all of the implications of your choice, and whether you and your partner are ready to take this step.

1. Lifestyle and Career Changes

You and your partner will find that your schedules adjust to accommodate your child’s needs when they arrive. You may need to give up certain activities, such as going out to the bar or a club on the weekend. You may also need to relocate items around your house that are unsafe around a young child. If you or your partner own firearms or other weapons you will need to ensure they are secured safely.

You may also need to amend your work schedule or adjust your work role. You may not be able to continue working overtime. You may also need to reduce business trips that would take you away from your family for extended periods of time. You and your partner need to have a realistic understanding of how having a child would impact your typical work routine and whether or not any changes be required.

2. Financial Situation

Before you make a decision about starting a family, it’s a good idea to do a quick mortgage 101. You will need to have enough space to accommodate a baby. You may also feel the need to relocate if your current home has an inconvenient layout. For example, most parents want to have easy access to the nursery. If the master bedroom is on a different level from the other bedrooms this can present a challenge for midnight feedings.

You may need to take time off work for your child’s delivery and for paternity leave. Once you do return to work, you will need to make arrangements for child care. It’s important to consider these expenses, as well as the other costs of caring for an infant when determining the right time to have a child.

3. Legal Considerations

You will need to choose someone to be the guardian of your minor children in case something happens to you and your partner. Without a will identifying a legal guardian, the courts will determine who raises your child. Ideally, you will have close friends or family members who have similar parenting philosophies and the resources needed to raise your child.

If you and your partner divorce you may have to go to court to secure a custody arrangement. If you have a career that involves long-distance transfers you may want to research how relocation could impact your visitation rights.

Your child may be transgender. It’s important to know your partner’s beliefs and prepare yourself for this development before your child is born. Otherwise, you may find yourself in a costly legal battle over your child’s identity and who will parent them.

4. Support Network

Consider which family members and close friends will be available to lend support or babysit when you need help. The first few months with a new baby can be particularly challenging, and you may suffer from a lack of sleep.

You may also have challenges with your extended family when you make parenting decisions. Grandparents may interfere with your parenting decisions or disrespect your choices when you are not present. It’s important to have a realistic understanding of which family members may present challenges and how much they should be involved with your children.

5. Potential Challenges

10% of couples who have been attempting to have a child for two years have difficulty conceiving naturally. Environmental factors, sexually transmitted diseases, and medical disorders can all cause infertility. Couples who are struggling to conceive can turn to IVF Los Angeles to explore options. Pacific Fertility Center Los Angeles (PFCLA) offers in vitro fertilization. They also provide treatment for infertility issues.

LGBTQ couples can also use PFCLA to connect with a surrogate, sperm donor, or fertilized egg. These options are enabling LGBTQ couples to expand their families safely. Contact Pacific Fertility Center in Los Angeles for more information. Address: 10921 Wilshire Blvd Ste 700, Los Angeles, CA 90024 Phone: (310) 209-7700.