Parenting
Many people around the world have a strong desire to have children, but various factors play a role in affecting a couple’s decision about the best time to start a family. When talking to a patient who is considering pregnancy, it’s appropriate to discuss some of the risks and benefits of child-bearing and how it will impact the patient’s life. Here are some factors to consider [2]:
The ups:
Having a baby is exciting and fun!
Enhancement of family relationships and propagation of family genes and name into future generations
Resources for achieving parents’ interests (economy, support for ageing parents and pursuit of unachieved goals)
Enhanced relationship with partner
Enhanced feeling of security
The downs:
Dirty diapers and sleepless nights!
Reduced educational and career opportunities
Reduced spending power
Decreased individual autonomy
Medical problems associated with pregnancy (anemia, diabetes, hypertension, hyperemesis, hemorrhage)
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2. Liefbroer, A.C., The Impact of Perceived Costs and Rewards of Childbearing on Entry into Parenthood: Evidence from a Panel Study. European Journal of Population. 2005: 21; 367-391.
