The choice to become a parent — or not to — is one of the biggest decisions a woman can make in her life. The idea that the existence of a tiny human rests on the shoulders of one or two people can be daunting, scary and, quite frankly, not for everyone — especially in 2022, as many Canadians are rethinking their family plans amid the uncertainty of the pandemic. Whether it’s due to concerns over the environment, unstable financial times or simply a personal choice, there are plenty of reasons why women are reconsidering motherhood. We’ve rounded up 10 of the reasons why some women are consciously choosing to remain childfree.

Raising children is a huge responsibility

They may already be looking after other loved ones

Climate change is a concern

Lingering intergenerational trauma and family drama

Life is already good

Wanting to avoid potential judgement and mom shaming

Finding fulfillment in other places

The rising cost of living
Having kids is not a cheap endeavor. When grocery bills start looking more like car payments, it may be time to reevaluate finances. Rising prices, with no real reprieve in sight, may feel daunting to women who may already be struggling to pay bills or save for the future. As the cost of living rises, but wages stay the same, having kids may be financially challenging to some.

They already have a large family
