How do you define 'childfree'?

[Lottapianos]

To me, being 'childfree' means that you don't have children, won't ever be having children, and (on balance) you are happy about that. I see parents on here saying things like 'i was childfree until I was 35' or 'i have a childfree weekend coming up'. Not having children yet is not the same as knowing that you won't ever be a parent. Other people taking care of your children for a while is not the same as being childfree. Some of us on here made a positive early choice to lead a childfree life, some of us got there later and through a more complex route, but we all share a common identity as people who are not parents

Do others on here agree?

To the outside world, you may appear to be and be described as "childless", but if you have made a decision around reproducing, then you are in fact childfree. I don't think I would ever describe myself that way to others, though.

Interesting, now that you mention it, I don't think I've ever used the word on conversation. Mostly it's simply been "Nope, never wanted them" if speaking to someone sensible, or a more left-field response to idiots of the "but don't you want baybeeees" variety.

If you are childfree by decision you don't just accidentally have them. I would have an abotion if I fell pregnant , but I am well on top of my contraception. Even read the leaflets 😁

Change of mind yes, but from what I've seen that's usually people who were on a fence in the maybe territory.

But I agree with others in tems of childfree weekend etc, it's context.

You can choose to be childfree then change your mind or accidentally have them at 35.

If you're truly set on being childfree then an accidental pregnancy in the UK won't result in a child.