How Many Babies Should You Have?

I think the decision of how many babies to have is purely a woman and her partner's choice. But I do believe there are several factors to consider, when making this decision. And the decision of how many babies to have is a major decision that every couple should discuss ahead of time!

* Are You Financially Ready? *
This includes a roof over their heads, clothing that is season/weather appropriate, plenty of healthy, nutritious food for them to eat, insurance or other means to provide for their medical and health needs. Daycare costs, or other childcare/schooling costs, after-school activities, etc...
Then, let's not forget, first cars (if you feel they need them!), college funds, wedding funds, etc. The cost of raising ONE child is absolutely staggering! Keep this in mind when making the decision to have anymore babies.

* Are You Emotionally/Mentally Ready? *
Raising one child is challenging enough, the demands of multiple children is emotionally, physically and mentally demanding, MULTIPLIED! It's hard to get used to getting up at night with a newborn, dealing with the responsibility of another human life, making sure we meet the demands and needs of one child... It becomes twice as hard if you add one child, and multiplies even more, per child you add. Do you have the PATIENCE for however many children you will have?
Mommy and Daddy are everything to infants and small children, they are entirely dependent on Us for their every want and need. That, in and of itself, can make being a parent extremely hard... Make sure you are emotionally/mentally ready to become a parent. And keep your emotional/mental health in mind when making the decision how many children to have.

* Your Physical Health And Well-Being *
Often, we forget to take this into consideration when deciding how many children we should have. Make sure your entire physical health is good before making the decision of how many children to have. Pregnancy, Labor and Delivery is very hard on a woman's body, it's important not to over-tax your body by having more children than is ideal for your physical health and well-being.

Ultimately, it's a Couple's decision of how many babies to have... But make the decision carefully. Having children is a joy and a blessing, but it can be very challenging. Think through carefully about how many children you should have, so you don't get overwhelmed or aren't able to properly care for your children.
Discuss the decision fully, and take your time making the decision.