“Should We Have Another Baby?” — Navigating this Question with Compassion

One of the most common questions couples bring to counseling is:

“Should we have another baby?”

It sounds simple, but it’s often wrapped in a complex web of emotions, expectations, and external pressures. This question can spark everything from quiet reflection to deep uncertainty—and that’s totally normal.

At Ready Nest, we know that this is not a decision to take lightly. It can touch everything from your emotional health to your finances, your relationship, and your dreams for the future.

In this video, Emily answers one of the most common (and tender) questions she hears in her sessions: “Should we have another baby?”

Why This Question Comes Up

Sometimes there’s a biological clock ticking louder than your heart is ready for. Other times, the question arises from outside voices—family, friends, even society—nudging you toward a vision that may or may not align with your own.

Couples often bring this question to therapy not because they’ve decided either way, but because the door still feels open. They’re sitting in that in between space, wondering if their family is complete or if there’s one more chapter waiting to be written.

If you’re in that space, you’re not alone.

The Feeling of “Done” vs. “Maybe One More”

Interestingly, for many people who feel their family is complete, there’s a deep sense of peace and clarity. It’s like putting a period at the end of a beautiful sentence. Things feel settled, grounded—even if they’re still chaotic in the day-to-day parenting sense.

But if you’re asking the question, “Should we have another baby?” then chances are… you’re not done yet. There’s openness. Curiosity. Sometimes, even grief or longing that hasn’t quite been named.

When You Want to Have Another Baby and Your Partner isn't on the Same Page

One of the hardest parts of this conversation is when you and your partner feel differently. That dissonance can lead to what we call gridlock—because unlike other decisions, you can’t compromise your way to half a baby. It’s all or nothing.

This is where communication tools become essential. We help couples build those tools every day in our therapy sessions. You don’t have to figure it out alone, and you don’t have to wait until things feel tense or stuck.

Try This: “Wearing the Decision”

One exercise that has helped many of our clients is what I call “wearing the decision.”

Here’s how it works:

1. Choose a day to imagine that you’ve already made the decision to have another baby. Pretend it’s real. You’re pregnant. How do you feel? What thoughts and emotions come up throughout the day?

2. Make notes—quietly, without checking in constantly. Use a journal or your phone to capture little reactions.

3. Another day, wear the opposite decision. Imagine your family is final. No more babies. How does that feel in your body, your heart, your mind?

This exercise can be surprisingly powerful. It often brings up hidden fears, unspoken desires, or unprocessed grief. More importantly, it helps you get out of the endless ping-pong of “should we / shouldn’t we” and into a more grounded place of emotional insight.

You Don’t Have to Decide Alone

Whether you’re ready to grow your family, leaning toward closure, or somewhere in the uncertain middle—we’re here to help. At Ready Nest Counseling, our team is trained to walk with you through these deeply personal decisions with care and clarity.

💬 Schedule a session today and start your next chapter with confidence and support.

📍Serving Nashville & Knoxville, Tennessee

Because every family story deserves to be told with compassion.