Ever since the pandemic, a whopping 51% of U.S. women said they are either not interested in having a baby or want to delay getting pregnant. Many women are choosing a path different from the traditional narrative. In fact, in the U.S., the birth rate has been steadily decreasing, with women under 30 waiting longer to have a child.
This scenario reflects changes in societal norms, complex realities, and the evolving aspirations of modern women. Fortunately, women have the freedom to make their decisions today.
In this article, we will discuss why motherhood has become a conscious choice for many women instead of an inherent destiny.
1. Career Aspirations and Professional Growth
A recent report revealed that 12% of women admitted to having faced maternity discrimination at work. The same research also confirms that 1 in 5 women claim to know someone who has faced discrimination because of maternity at their workplace.
This slowdown in career after dedicating years to education, skill development, and making a career is a non-negotiable for many. When women embrace motherhood, it often means they have to pause the career momentum and focus on their family and kids. Each step up or promotion comes with more time commitment and a more significant workload in the corporate world.
This is why most women in their 20s are choosing to delay motherhood so that they can dedicate their focus to progressing further in their careers. It’s a calculated move by many modern women to prioritize career milestones over starting a family early.
2. Financial Considerations and Economic Independence
Raising a child is a significant financial undertaking, as the costs can quickly accumulate, from formula and diapers to education and extracurricular activities. According to the Institute for Family Studies, raising a child to the age of 18 costs a whopping $310,600 in the U.S. USDA reports that parents in urban regions are spending 27% more than those in rural areas. This estimate does not include the cost of college education.
Needless to say, the cost of raising a child is daunting for most women, especially for those who have not attained the financial stability that allows for such a long-term commitment. Such women prioritize establishing a secure financial foundation before embracing motherhood. This includes establishing a stable income, paying off debts, and building savings to support themselves and the child.
3. Health Concerns and Medical Considerations
Pregnancy or childbirth is not without risks. According to recent statistics, one in 10 women may develop an infection, one in 20 experience blood pressure issues, and one in 20 suffer from excessive blood loss during delivery. The physical toll of pregnancy and childbirth can be overwhelming for many, and recovery can take significant time.
These health concerns are the reason why many women refrain from embracing motherhood. For this reason, many working women are turning to preventive measures to delay motherhood. However, there are growing concerns around several contraceptive measures as well. For example, according to TorHoerman Law, several women have experienced injuries and internal bleeding while using the Paragard IUD.
The victims of this particular contraceptive have filed a Paragard IUD lawsuit against the maker, Teva Pharmaceuticals. These lawsuits are intended to hold the maker accountable and seek much-needed compensation. The settlement amount varies from $10,000 to $400,000, depending upon the complexity of the injury.
4. Changing Societal Norms and Expectations
According to the data. 41% of people still believe that the central role of women in society is to be a good wife and mothers. However, the social norms are now shifting to embrace a broader range of life choices for women. Women in the 21st century choose to lead a life on their own terms by prioritizing career aspirations, personal goals, etc.
It’s essential for society at large to understand and accept that motherhood is a deeply personal decision, and women should have the option to opt out of it. Whether a woman chooses to embrace motherhood, delay it, or forgo it completely, it is her decision and should be met with respect and understanding.
The decision to be a mother is shaped by a myriad of factors unique to each woman. It’s important to recognize and respect these individual choices, challenging the outdated expectations that have long defined womanhood in society. By challenging the status quo, we can create a society that paves the way for a more fulfilling future for all women, regardless of their choices regarding motherhood.
