Shall we try for a third?

[Whatnonsenseisthis]

Interested to hear others' experiences...

Elder two would most likely be around 6 and 5 when DC3 arrived.

We both work, are generally tired, finances not an issue but time is. But we would love another..

Any advice?

If you can afford it and really want to why not? What would you regret more, never trying or having another baby?

Yes I expect we probably wouldn't regret it!

My main concern (being middle child with two DBS who required a lot of attention) is not having enough individual time and attention for each of them..

That and breastfeeding... I really didn't enjoy that the first two times but would feel I needed to do it with the third too

Breastfeeding period is such a short time in the grand scheme of things and shouldn't be a factor. You can always use a bottle if it's that bad.

I'd be more concerned with your mental stability and physical ability of looking after 3 kids.

I have two (3 and 1) and going through PND and anxiety following second dd and I wish had the mental ability to have another.

How can anyone advise really? It's such a deeply personal choice. I have three and utterly adore my youngest (still a baby) and genuinely enjoy him. But obviously 3 is more work than 2, only you know how you feel about that. I will say I found going from 2-3 easier than from 1-2 which I found quite overwhelming. Also you may find the older ones delight in the baby (mine do) and can help sometimes. But logistically it's not easy and you don't get as much 1:1 time with each child but you do get some and the baby doesn't need you in the same way as a 6 year old so it's not like they're all needing quality time at the same time.

I like the fun of three, others prefer the neat and tidy orderliness of 2. There's no right answer. My eldest was 6 when my baby arrived and their relationship is quite joyful to behold - the big one dotes on him.

Oh and financially I don't think the baby has cost us a penny yet - handmedown clothes, pram, cot, car seat, toys etc!!

Sorry, don't mean to be flippant about the financial aspect. Obviously three will cost us more down the line. Babies are cheap to run!

I have three. It’s great, but was v hard when they were little. Much harder than going from one to two. Probably because DC3 was by far the worst sleeper of the three, and a tricky toddler too (he’s now a lovely 8yo). So I would think long and hard about it!

Thank you. I know it's a very personal choice of course. I am struggling with the head/heart thing though.

Rationally I know it's best to stop: we struggle with sleep as it is, with two we are a lot more able to go out and do stuff, we're both relieved not to be in the baby phase anymore and DC get plenty of attention.

But my heart says wouldn't it be lovely. Particularly for the DC to have another sibling...