To think I am not too young to have a baby?

[FlyingHamster]

I don't think I am but a few comments from friends have made me start doubting myself a little bit.

A bit of background - I am 23 and me and my partner have been talking about how we would like to start trying for a baby soon. I have worked since I was 16 and am now earning a good wage, my partner also works and earns a good wage. We also have our own house now. It's not like we're struggling with money or struggling to feed ourselves so we can afford to bring a baby into the mix.

However the reaction from friends has been surprisingly negative. They are mostly the same age as me but they seem to be under the impression that I'm too young and that I will be throwing my life away if I do this. They have been telling me that at my age I "should" be out having fun, going out to nightclubs and getting drunk and going places.

Except I have already done all of those things and quite frankly I'm getting bored of some of those things. I did party a lot in my mid to late teens and was out clubbing every weekend back then. I enjoyed it then however over the last couple of years I've gotten bored of it and now only go out drinking once a month if that. I'm happy with that however I have people who think I am turning "old" and "boring" too soon but that's a whole other thread.

I have also been to various places and whilst I want to travel some more one day I don't think starting a family now will mean that can't ever happen.

So now I'm worried that a lot of people will be thinking I'm too young except they won't want to say it out loud. Even though I shouldn't really care what other people think .

I don't think you're too young at all. I was 23 when I had D.D. She was planned

Do it!!!!!
Don't listen to ANYONE.
if you feel ready then you are ready.

Yes most women now having babies are in their 30s, but there's a lot of reasons why. And they aren't yours. Like career- yours started early so you are in a good position now, money- you have enough, bloke- luckily you have a good one, house- you have one.

It's all good!

I had various reasons why I didn't want children. One night, overnight I changed my mind. I love my dd dearly and now I wish I had more time on this planet with her. I could be half way through my life. I feel she is so precious I never want to leave her. If you can have more time with your child/ren then do it!
It's all good

And you won't know this yet- but it turns out parenting is a COMPETITION. Yes really. From what age you conceive at, to the birth to weaning age etc etc. so just start off by ignoring everyone else and you will be fine

Of course it's not too young.

Your choice.

Personally, I'm delighted I waited (40 with two under 2). I've had my wild, selfish, party days - which incidentally got better with age, my 30's was fantastic!

One of my friends (my age) has an 18 year old. Who she goes clubbing with. All very bizarre to me! But each to their own.

I will say though, having children definitely ages you. If you want to look good at 40, I'd wait until you were older before you start your sleep deprivation ageing program!!!!

I was 21 when I had my first and 24 when I had DC2 (he is now 7mo). They are the light of my life. Do it Op. Don't listen to anyone!

Not too young IMO.

I was 24 when I got pregnant with Ds - he's 7 now and his sister is 4. Don't feel like I'm a young mum at all

In fact, my closest 'mum friends' are 28,26 and 29 with kids ranging from 7 down to 1.

I got pregnant accidentally at 23 and was in a complete panic thinking I was "too young", what would people think etc.

We had good qualifications, good jobs, a very good relationship and owned a house. When I stopped and thought about it, we were in a better position than most 35 year olds trying to conceive.

A few years later, we're married with a second dc and very happy. I can obviously only speak for myself but I have older friends who are now deliberating about dc and I'm so glad I didn't wait. The "baby" stages are over for me and my career will kick off again in a year or so. Pregnancy had very little effect on my health and body and we have very supportive family close by so still have a wonderful social life. I turn 30 next year and feel very lucky to be in this position at my age.

if you care this much what people think,you probably shouldnt.