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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Not sure I am cut out for more than one child?

34 replies

mumofone91 · 01/10/2025 06:36

I have always wanted more than one child. I always thought two or three but now I have had one I have struggled and am wondering if I am even cut out for that.

My DS is 7 months, i would love for him to have a sibling but I can’t see that I will ever be ready or good enough to have another.

Does or did anyone else feel this way? Or maybe a sign to stop at one?

OP posts:
YellowSubmarine994 · 01/10/2025 07:40

I think it's so different for everyone and you just have to roll with it. Personally, I felt similar to you at 7 months in, while really in the trenches of baby parenting, that I didn't want to do this again. Low and behold, when she got to around 2 yo and things started getting easier again we decided we want another. Equally, many people are one and done these days and really happy with that choice. So go with what your gut is saying.

MidnightPatrol · 01/10/2025 06:45

It took until my child was about 2.5 until I felt ready to have another.

At 7 months, you still have a small baby, and they are all-encompassing in a way an older child is not.

Once your life looks more normal and you sleep properly, the thought of a second is more palatable.

Wavescrashingonthebeach · 01/10/2025 06:45

Just enjoy your baby, you are in the thick of it at the moment. Of course one is fine.
As your baby develops into a toddler you may or may not feel different x

WorriedMillie · 01/10/2025 06:44

I’m definitely not cut out for more than one child. I adore the child I have and I’m at peace with just having one ❤️

Kaleidoscope2 · 01/10/2025 06:44

I was similar to you until my eldest was 3 and then I decided I did want another. If I hadn't changed how I felt emotionally or mentally then I think I'd have been happy being one and done but as it is I'm very glad we went for number 2 and I found the jump between 1 to 2 much much smoother than 0 to 1. I don't ever think there is a right or wrong answer to this, just how you feel and what's best for your particular family unit.

Iguessicoulddothat · 01/10/2025 06:42

I spent a lot of time worrying about this with a baby. 4 years on I still have the one, would love the capacity for more but it wouldn't have been a good idea. But the worry was for nothing and I should have just enjoyed my baby. Lots will change in the next months and years so no need for permanent decisions now.

aurynne · 01/10/2025 06:40

I've always been cut out for zero children, and could not be any more fulfilled. You do what makes you happy.

WhatNoRaisins · 01/10/2025 06:39

I think a lot of people feel like that with babies. Some change their minds later on, when child number one starts sleeping more is often the point. Some don't and that's fine too.

whimsicallyprickly · 01/10/2025 06:38

My sister only had one child. Super happy all round. No problems at all

She always thought she'd have 3 or 4

🙂