Wrong time to try for baby?

[freelancenewbie]

New to freelancing, just got my first client & get regular bits of work from other companies too. All going quite well. Hmmmmm, so now, just as I begin to get on top of things, we're tentively thinking about ttc no.3. Have two pre-schoolers already. Am I crazy? Would a 3rd just totally result in the end of my freelancing? Arghhh, why can't I ever just feel settled? Is this the wrong time?

If you feel that you'd like to have another baby. There's nothing wrong with that.

There are many self employed mothers and mothers to be. It's maybe a bit harder being pregnant and self employed, but not impossible.

Hi Freelance

I know things are just getting going for you, but you don't know how long ttc will take. If you have a dream pregnancy you might not see any negative impact on your work. Yes it could all be a nightmare, but it might not be!

There is also something to be said for freelancing actually being helpful during pregnancy. You in theory should be able to get to appointments more easily and rest a bit more at home towards the end etc.

I also wonder if ttc in 2 years once you have been established/built up business will actually be harder? You might have a large portfolio of clients that need to be serviced whilst you are off. There have been a few threads on here about people either arranging cover for their mat leave (and it not always working out) or going back really quickly to ensure they don't lose the work.

I think the mat leave is probably the biggest issue when one freelances. I think a lot of us "are" our businesses, so remove us and there is no business. It is more complicated than when employed.

I am taking from now until March off officially but I expect to use Jan & Feb to get some business development started to try to pipeline stuff for my return.

Only you & your DP know if 3 is right for you, but I wouldn't let the fact you freelance be a reason for why you don't go for it...

HTH
Good luck!

Hi, thanks so much for your reply, really helpful. I was of the opinion that it was just crazy to even be considering no.3 at this point and to think about it some more in a couple of years. But... what you say has totally made me think. Maybe now would be easier than when I'm more established. I'm so happy with my two dcs & feel so blessed to have them. I'm not even really sure if we want to try again, I feel very confused about it. Just read an article that states 3 dc is highest stress level for mother...maybe I need to stop reading! Or maybe I need to realise that all this doubt probably means it's not really the right choice for us. Or...maybe I should have a glass of wine in the sun & enjoy my Sat night! Thanks again..

Hi freelance I am self employed, work from home and have two school age children 9&6 and a 7 month old. I, like you deliberated my head off with husband as to whether we should rock the boat with a third. I have no option of not working and it is hell trying to work from home so let me give you my experience...

The worst pregnancy of all 3; sickness till 28 weeks, severe spd and obstetric cholestasis (felt permanently hungover with liver function way off and ridiculously itchy)

Before pregnancy had the most sorted year of life in 8 years with both kids at school and business doing really well.

Sleep deprivation, breast feeding all hours and post natal anxiety.

BUT the reward? The most special, beautiful, gorgeous little baby who has completed our family and I genuinely don't regret ever having chosen to have her!

If someone had told me how hard the last 17 months would have been I would have said no way, decision made but, I'm so glad I didn't know as I would regret not having Baby 3 forever.

Not sure if that helps?!

Just to add, the age gap is perfect for us and means with both older children at school I have only the baby to look after whilst working. It's not easy obviously bug if you manage it already with 2 pre school, really what is one more?

I found out I was pregnant the day after I resigned from a job!
THere is never a "right time"
just go with the tide

Thanks for all the replies. I agree, there never will be a 'perfect time'. Hmm, maybe I'll just relax about it.