Nervous, advice please?

[Locto]

Hi there!

So me and my partner are looking to start trying, we're in a good place financially, we have a totally stable relationship, engaged but not yet married, both have wonderful jobs that we love, we have our gorgeous dog, great house in a good location... All the signs say we're ready!

But we're terribly nervous.

Are we too young at 25/26? What if it all goes wrong financially? Will my child inherit my mental health problems? Will I be judged by colleagues, friends, family? Am I too immature? Should we be married first? Will I be an awful mum?

I've never felt more ready, but if I'm having all these anxieties... Am I really ready?

Any advice would be so appreciated, I really want to become a mum, I feel it's what I've been missing this whole time. But is it selfish if I'm having these thoughts?

Thank you!

What do you mean by "will you be judged?"

Why would anyone judge a stable sensible couple for starting a family?

Many people who have children don't think about any of these issues!

Parenting is one of those things you can only learn by doing it!

Definitely not too young! I was so broody at 26! Everything sounds great for you. At this age you can think about if there are things you wanted to do first before your life changes. You have lots of time but sounds like you're almost decided :)

If you want kids before marriage that's totally up to you, don't let anyone persuade you otherwise. It's what I'm trying to do! Wedding can wait!

You say you feel more than ready, crack on! Ask do I want a baby, will they be loved fed and kept safe if yes go for it, x

I wanted to be married first. I felt more protected if something went wrong.

I got married first for the legal protection. If you're not planning to marry at least make a will and put each other as insurance beneficiaries etc so in the event of an accident the other parent is taken care of. And make sure you're not left at home doing childcare with no share of house ownership or savings etc!

I had my daughter 6 months before my 26th birthday, we weren't aren't married & our daughter just turned one. We're the happiest we've ever been. Best decision we ever made