As the milestone of my 30th birthday approaches, the frequency of inquiries about parenthood has surged—especially from family, friends, and even casual acquaintances. My own mother is among the most curious. While my husband and I have every intention of starting a family eventually—evidenced by our recent home purchase—the timing remains uncertain.
After four years of marriage, it’s astonishing how some people expect new couples to have children almost immediately post-wedding. Yes, some do, and that’s perfectly acceptable, but it’s simply not our choice. With our experience of relocating across four different states in four years, having a child during that time would have been a significant challenge.
Everyone has their own journey, and we should be free to make our choices without facing judgment. There are numerous reasons why someone may not have children, ranging from personal decisions to fertility struggles. Despite this, I frequently hear the same comments, and I wish they would cease.
1. “When I was your age, I already had several kids!”
That’s great! I’ve explored Europe and traveled extensively throughout the U.S. Traveling without children is a different experience, and I’d prefer it for now.
2. “You seem like a natural with that baby. Maybe it’s time for your own!”
I didn’t drop the baby, so I guess that makes me ready for parenthood?
3. “Let me share a terrifying story about my childbirth experience.”
Please, go ahead. I might want kids someday, but now I’m a bit apprehensive. My only relevant story is how my dog scratched me once—definitely not the same.
4. “You’re not getting any younger.”
True, but neither are you.
5. “Your future kids will be adorable!”
And if they’re not, can we return them? I see where you’re going with this—my child would be half-Asian and half-white, which is why you think they’ll be cute.
6. “Are you next in line for a baby?”
I have no control over other people’s family planning, so I can’t answer that. Why do you want to know?
7. “Having a dog isn’t the same as having a child.”
Thank goodness for that! Dogs can be left alone for a bit, but I doubt the same is true for kids.
8. “You’ve dealt with a puppy; a baby should be easy!”
You can’t have it both ways! Which is it—are they similar or not?
9. “Can’t you hear your biological clock ticking?”
Nope. Music might be drowning it out, or perhaps it’s malfunctioning. Time will tell!
10. “So, when will you have a baby?”
Not in the next nine months, that’s for sure. Rest assured, you’ll find out eventually—though you may not be among the first to know.
It’s best to refrain from making such remarks to anyone who could potentially conceive, even if you have children yourself. These conversations often lead to discomfort for the listener, whether you realize it or not.
(Our parents are an exception—they’ll likely ask whatever they please, so we can let that slide. Hi, Mom!)
For those interested in exploring options for starting a family, consider looking into resources about fertility supplements at Make a Mom or checking out Healthline for insights on intrauterine insemination. If you’re considering a more hands-on approach, the BabyMaker Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit Combo is an authority on this topic.
In summary, as I inch closer to 30 and remain childless, I encounter a myriad of comments from well-meaning individuals. While the topic of parenthood is personal and sensitive, it is essential to recognize that everyone’s journey is unique, and we should all be respectful of those choices.
Keyphrase: approaching 30 and childless
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