Childfree

Choosing to be childfree is a deeply personal decision.  In a world where the expectation on women to have children is still strong, you may feel judged, misunderstood, or even guilt.  There are many reasons why women choose to not have children, including:

• Knowing it’s not what they want
• Having life goals that don’t align with parenthood
• Not wanting to pass down genetic conditions
• Fear of bringing a child into an unsafe world
• Financial insecurity
• Personal experiences of trauma
• Mental illness.

For some women choosing to be childfree is a no-brainer.  But for many of us the decision may not be so easy.  The challenges child free women experience can make this choice difficult and create uncertainty.

Women who are childfree face unique challenges across the lifespan:

• Unsolicited opinions and societal expectations
• Cultural or religious pressure to have children
• Navigating different views on having children with partners and friends
• Creating an identity and purpose without the role of motherhood
• Loss of friendships
• Difficulty in finding a partner who is also childfree
• Unfair expectations of availability or exclusion from events
• Medical gaslighting or refusal of care due to fertility choices.

Stereotypes and negative attitudes towards childfree women remain.  Even now there are those who accuse childfree women of being selfish, not contributing to society, and sharing the image of lonely cat ladies.  At the opposite end of the spectrum is the belief that childfree women hate children and have endless amounts of money and spare time.  We know that for many childfree women this is simply not true.

Our wholistic counselling services support you to navigate life without children – on your own terms.  We provide a safe, judgement-free space for you to explore your emotions, thoughts, find empowerment, and find confidence and joy where ever you are in your journey.