According to research, British women who want children are delaying childbearing primarily to focus on their professions.
In determining the optimal time to establish a family, factors such as financial strain were deemed to be less essential.
Earlier this year, statistics indicating that more than half of women are childless by the age of 30 suggested a significant shift in family structure.
An in-depth study designed to determine why women delay childbearing presented 411 participants with a list of 11 factors and asked them to select up to three that were significant in determining their desired age for pregnancy.
The most important aspect was their profession, followed by their readiness and their financial status.
The survey, conducted by University College London, indicated that 30 was the ideal average age for a woman to have her first child.
When asked about their ideal age to become a mother and why nearly half of the women cited their desire to further their careers.
Comparatively, just 37% picked the time of motherhood based on financial concerns.
One lady was described in the study, which was published in the journal Human Reproduction, as saying, “I worry about my ability to have the children I want in the time I have without putting too much strain on my profession.”
Many women, according to the study, desired to have a child only when their careers, finances, and emotions were solid and it was the “perfect moment.”
Professor Joyce Harper, the main author and author of Your Fertile Years, stated, “Our study indicates that women continue to prioritize their careers over having children in 2022.”
‘It is not necessary because they are ambitious or desire to climb the corporate ladder. Instead, many are fearful that their career may suffer upon their return to work after having a child.
It demonstrates the necessity of businesses supporting women’s professional advancement and providing acceptable pay so that women may afford child care.
The authors of the study warn that women may run out of time to have children.
They advocate for more information so that women are aware that fertility drops in their thirties and IVF is not a foolproof cure.
In addition, women recounted having to wait until their partner was ready to have a child, as well as their concerns around maternity leave and child care.
Researchers observed that the majority of women had advanced degrees, which may influence their priorities.
Many women told researchers that they want ‘independence’ before marriage.
One respondent stated, “I’d like to enjoy my thirties before taking on such responsibilities.”
