How To Tell Your Partner You're Ready To Have A Baby, Because It Takes Two

When you decide you're ready to have a baby, you're basically 100 percent into it right away. But your partner might not be totally there yet, and since choosing to bring a child into the world is a pretty huge thing, you might be a little anxious to tell them you're in all-systems-go mode. So, while you're up late Googling all things baby, you might be wondering how to tell your partner you're ready to have a baby. What's the best way?

According to Parenting, it's not uncommon for one partner to be ready before the other. Typically, this tends to balance itself out, with one pushing forward, and one holding back, and an "in the middle" sort of compromise might feel good for both. If you know your SO wants to be a parent, but doesn't feel ready yet, it's good to explore what could be holding them back. It could be anything from career worries, to fear of being the sole financial provider, or even just nervous about being a good parent. Whatever it is, it's important for both of you to talk openly about your thoughts and worries — you might find that something as simple as an open discussion is enough to ease all concerns about moving forward into parenthood.

While it is productive to talk about these things together, sometimes the resistant partner needs to vent to a neutral party, like a therapist or nonjudgmental friend, suggested Parents. A few talks on their own can help them to understand their own hesitations, and then allow them to have a more productive (ahem, less argumentative) conversation with you.

Don't consider hesitations and concerns to be any sign that your partner doesn't want to be a parent, though. As the Chicago Tribune noted, "it's wise to do some soul-searching to ensure you have at least a few ducks in a somewhat tidy row before a toddler comes in and throws them across the room."

Deciding to bring a child into your family is a huge thing, and really, there's no other way to tell your partner you're ready for a baby than to sit them down and tell them. Whether you're met with cheers or fears, trust that open (often vulnerable) communication will ease everyone going forward, and will continue to be paramount through your time as parents.

So go have that talk. Honestly, there's no way around it.