If you’re thinking about starting a family with your partner, it’s important to consider whether you’re truly ready for the responsibility. While OB-GYN services provide what you need to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery, there are mental and emotional considerations that should be made prior to conception. 

4 Ways to Tell That You’re Ready to Be a Parent

1. You Like Being Around Kids

While having your own children is different than being around other people’s kids, you should feel a certain amount of ease when spending time in the presence of children. If you find yourself happy and at ease during an afternoon spent with the kids of friends or family, then you’ll likely feel more comfortable having kids of your own.

2. You’re Willing to Make Sacrifices

Kids require a massive amount of resources to be happy and healthy throughout their lives. In most cases, parents must sacrifice a few enjoyable activities to ensure their children are well-cared for. From lack of sleep to passing up on social gatherings, you must be prepared to give more of yourself when you become a parent. 

3. You’re Healthy Mentally & Physically

Being a parent is taxing in many different ways. If you and your spouse are not in a good place mentally and physically, it will be that much harder to raise a child. Additionally, women should seek out OB-GYN services well before they get pregnant to ensure they’re receiving sufficient prenatal care. 

4. You’re Financially Stable & Responsible

Raising a child costs quite a bit of money. Some estimates put the total cost for raising a child from birth to age 17 at $233,610, which equals about $14,000 per year. If you’re in a comfortable financial place, and you feel ready to provide for a baby, then perhaps it’s time to explore growing a family with your partner. 

When the time is right for you, Greece OB-GYN, LLP offers OB-GYN services to women in Rochester, NY. With more than 30 years of experience, they will assist women through every phase of their lives. Along with obstetrics care, they also provide gynecological exams, STD screenings, advice on birth control, and treatment of urogynecological issues for incontinence and pelvic prolapse. Visit them online to browse their OB-GYN services or call (585) 225-6680 to schedule an appointment. They also provide evening hours for your maximum convenience.