Women 🐠: what age did you start having kids? What age would you recommend for best career trajectory?

I had my first at 31, second at 33, and now third at 36. I've seen many women at Deloitte struggle to get pregnant in their 30s and have to go through IVF...most have been successful but not all. I feel blessed. I've also seen women insistent on waiting until they are partners which is totally up to them and I hope it works out. My feeling was I'd rather have kids and maybe not make partner than make partner and not be able to have kids. We all get to make our own choices and to each their own.

I'm about to have my first, shortly before I turn 29. I also know no other managers who are in my position (most are principals or partners). Regardless of other health concerns, the younger that you are, the more quickly/easily your body bounces back from pregnancy, that's undeniable.

Curious too. I am 34 and made SM last October. I was convinced about waiting for 3 more years, but off late I have been spending too much time around friends with kids and it's making me rethink.

@A1 - not quite. Unless you have parents or family members who have had pregnancy or birthing issues, or have some other reason to believe you or your wife may have issues with pregnancy, then that age number is closer to 35/36. || Source:consulted multiple OB/GYNs with my wife recently about this exact topic. || Disclaimer: I also recommend you speak to your doctor about your situation.

Also, kids will likely slow down your trajectory to some extent, but IMO they're so much more rewarding than a title and more money.

(Am 29)

From a health perspective, you should have your first baby before 30. Chances of issues with the pregnancy/child start to increase after that, even if IVF allows you to get pregnant at an older age

I'm looking to have kids without going through marriage. I'd drop a burner for any serious female thinking along this same line.

You can using a pump, milk storage bags and travel ice coolers. I'm pretty sure Deloitte covers supplies and shipping for breastmilk if you don't want to haul it back yourself. TSA doesn't limit breastmilk and I've never had issues traveling with it but I wasn't traveling every week when I was pumping. It's a pain in the ass to pump period let alone when traveling. The hardest part is finding 25 min every few hours during the day to step away from work.

My doctor said they recommend breast milk for the first 6 mos. so if it's possible for you not to travel immediately after going back to work, that would be best. That's my plan at least. By the time I start traveling again, not going to breastfeed anymore

Toughest existential question. I don't want kids right now, but dunno if I'll ever change my mind and regret it

BTW the study that shows that women are led fertile after 30 is 300 years old. Food for thought. http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-24128176

I've head Manager is a good time

@D1 seriously? That's what I'm thinking, but a little scared it will be crazy.

Is it possible to travel and breast feed? Can you bottle a week's worth of milk?