I'm having trouble deciding whether or not I want to have #3 child. I have a wonderful little girl and boy. I can't decide! How do you know?

Stephanie - posted on 03/11/2009

I have three, and number three was unplanned.  I wanted a third, but our second was only 9 months old, so we weren't ready yet.  But now, I know we're "complete" b/c I can look at my family at the dinner table and really truly feel like everyone is there, that we are complete.  So, try looking at your table tonight.  Does anyone seem to be missing?

Lorraine - posted on 03/11/2009

I am a mom or three, 18, 16 & 10 now...with the first two girls, my husband and I were so busy, that most of time went by in a blur.  We were thinking of adding another baby, and within two weeks of us deciding it would work out, we found out there was another blessing on the way.  I'm so glad we did! My third was a boy & he's added tremendously to our family. I just want to say that unless you feel rushed to make a choice now - it's okay to take time to see how your family grows and decide at a later date.  Yes, it puts you back into 'baby' mode. (my youngest had just entered kindergarten when we got the news the third was on the way). It's so worth it though! There was time to enjoy the baby and the older sisters were such a big help!  We've had built in baby-sitters on the few occasions we need time away now. So, there is definately a trade off. Just make sure that you get some quality time with each older child & lots of help from your hubby.

Amanda - posted on 03/10/2009

For me i just had my second and I know I can't handle three.  I don't have the patience and so I just know.  I think if you have the patience and time than three is good.  It all depends on you and how much you think you can handle.  Some people can and some can't. 

Bonnie - posted on 03/10/2009

I had 2 boys and just didn't feel "complete".  I wanted a 3rd and didn't do it for a girl...though it would have been nice.  I waited until the older 2 were nearly 4 and 61/2 to get pregnant so I could really "enjoy" and cherish my last child.It was another boy and he is sooo close to his brothers and I feel complete!!

Ali - posted on 03/10/2009

I think as long as you and your husband have both prayed and you both want 3, thenlike Jodie said if it's meant to happen it will. Something to consider with three, there can be 1 that feels left out at times.

Angela - posted on 03/10/2009

A third needs to definetly be prayerfully considered. I went from one to three at once with twins so I am not the right person to talk to for sure but when you have 2 you can hold ones hand and hold the other but with three you can't hold 2 hands and hold baby. It's just always a lot harder to handle 3. you and hubby can't each take one and so on. I wouldn't change a thing but it is a LOT to be said for stopping at boy and girl!! Even though I find myself wanting another alot but I think you always will when you know your done! Looking forward to grandkids (in 15 yrs ) at least.

Sandi - posted on 03/10/2009

I think you know in your heart. I have 4 girls, all 2 years apart. (They are all over the age of 15 years now.) When I had my 3rd, I wondered if I would be able to devote the same kind of time and love to my 3rd as my older two. After all, I was tired, busy, and many times overwhelmed. After she came along, the question never again entered my head. I loved her unconditionally and without measure! I learned alot about myself, too. I believe it is impossible to run out of love and you can always make the time! Sure, sometimes the house was a mess, but who cares when it is filled with laughter and love?! When baby #4 came along, there was never even a doubt. I knew it could be done. Besides, God never gives us more than we can handle.

Jodie - posted on 03/10/2009

I have 5 children. I thought it was easier going from baby 2 to 3 than 1 to 2. But it is something you need to talk about and decide with your husband or partner. If it is meant to happen it will.

Stevie - posted on 03/10/2009

its in your heart do you feel complete or do you feel like your just missing something thats how most of the people i know do it

Tina - posted on 03/10/2009

You don't...I felt the same way with my second child. Do you and your husband love and respect each other? Are you contempating over having another child for all the right reasons?

I have alway's heard that after three it doesn't matter how many kids you have....it's all the same.



It's really about you and your husband, and what you feel with each other.

Danielle - posted on 03/10/2009

I had my third child nearly two years ago after having a boy and girl. I must say I really noticed the difference between having two children to having three ( they are 3 1/2 and 3 years apart). There is a great deal of practical things to consider, but most importantly do you think you will be able to handle the emotional side of another child? It's not selfish....just practical. Although I get fustrated at times, my youngest reminds me with her cheeky humour why I 'went back', and why I would do so again.....when she's at school.......

Theresa - posted on 03/10/2009

My husband and I are now expecting our 3rd angel, we just found out. Our daughter is 7 months and our son will be 3 years old in April. I will agree with Elizabeth that you should pray about it and if you both agree that you want to go ahead and have one more, this is a decision between you both and God. Kids are a blessing and yes they are expensive but life is not the same without them too. Be encouraged because many people will try to change your mind but you know what, what you and your hubby decide, is between you and your hubby. I support you both 100% with whatever decision you make. It's never an easy decision to make but when you both agree, don't let anyone else get in the middle of it.

Allison - posted on 03/10/2009

I don't know if you ever really *know* - I think once you decide it's the right decision, no matter what the decision is. I have a 5 year old girl and a 2 year old boy, and am expecting #3 in May. I'm excited - it seems so far like the transition from 2 to 3 is/will be easier than the transition from 1 to 2 was, but we'll see. We know we are definitely done after this one, though - my husband really didn't want #3 but I've always wanted 4, so we've compromised a bit (plus, we're have #3 earlier than I wanted...but he wants to get out of the baby stage sooner rather than later).

After having #2, I found myself looking around for another one...like I felt one was missing. So for me I'm certain #3 is the way to completely my family (well...I'd probably be ok if we accidentally had a #4, but I'd alway feel I was missing something if we stopped at 2, if that makes sense).

Good luck with your decision. :-)

Tammi - posted on 03/10/2009

i am having the same issue.  my daughter the youngest will just be turning 2.  i wanted my kids close together but i dont think i am ready for a third.  i think it is a family decision and you need to consider all the things that go into play:  how the siblings would feel, money, if you are ready to start over.  my daughter still is very needy and gives me that fix.  good luck

Elizabeth - posted on 03/10/2009

I would just pray about.....and if you want more kids I think it's great.  Kids are awesome....a wonderful gift from God:)