Thanks for reading and for commenting. It's really interesting to hear that you didn't realize that not having children is such a big thing. I think it's one of those lived experiences that you don't know about unless you are on the receiving end.

I have read many books, researched countless childfree articles and reviewed scientific studies. Childfree and childless women (and men) face an insidious persecution. From being ostracised, made to feel less than, othered, invisibled, outcast from some friend groups and even families to be shamed and ridiculed. It's a complex and nuanced area, which we are only just starting to talk more about. I'm glad you have childfree/childless role models and you recognize that having children isn't for everyone. Thanks for reading this piece :-)