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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I have a couple of younger female relatives that had their first child in their teens, which was tough enough. But then they had more kids with other boyfriends in their early twenties. They struggle financially and socially with unstable relationships and stress. What is the logic among younger women, wanting so many kids so young?[/quote]

I had both my kids young for DCUM. Not a teen. I definitely couldn’t afford the first. Probably couldn’t afford the second if I’d thought about it. I finished my education with two grad degrees (one after each pregnancy). Nonetheless, I can compare myself to other women I know and see that I’m no worse off:

My best friend who married well and had carefully timed pregnancies but was expected to SAH for the past two decades and is constantly afraid of divorce.

One cousin had three by 20. Had a few years on public assistance and then chose an in demand blue collar career field. Today, she makes about what I make, give or take a couple K. Middle class. Her kids do the same stuff mine do with the exception of her eldest who is disabled.

One cousin has no kids because she waited too long. Federal employee. She makes about what I and her sister do. Probably feels like a lot more because she only has to spend it on herself. I don’t think that’s a huge comfort to her.

My “mom friends” who waited until they were late 30s and established in their careers to have kids. Careers ranging from Feds to education to corporate. Still middle class. Many divorces over money, dead bedrooms, child issues.

My work friends who are early 40s and still hoping to get married and have kids, but really stressed over everything from dating to perimenopause to work.

I’m not sure waiting would have done me any good.[/quote]

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