Choosing NS or another baby, or both?

Nurses General Nursing

Published

I need some advice. I am set to start an accelerated BSN program next January, and am considering trying to get pregnant now and have the baby before the program starts. Would I be crazy to think I could have a baby (I also have a 4 and 6 year old) and still complete the accelerated program?

I want another child but I don't want to give up getting my nursing degree (nor do I want to put it off any longer). My fear is that if I choose to not have another baby because of school, that I may regret it in the long run. I feel the same way about having a baby. If I choose to have a baby and not go to school, I think I will be bitter and depressed. Taking classes for NS and having the goal has been the best thing for me.

I feel like I could do both, but am I crazy?

I think that the bigger picture is that completion of NS will increase the financial security of your family and that will pay huge dividends for your family and peace of mind.

I think that waiting until you are well through school is a good balance. I have a classmate who got married during school. She got pregnant during the second half of NS. She finished and is due any day. I don't know which accelerated program you are entering but I would not personally try to go to school pregnant or with a new baby. If you are in a 16 month program wait until you have completed the first semester before deciding whether you want to try for another baby during school. I wish you the very best in your decision.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Oh, my gosh, I could've written this post myself! I'm in the same boat...35, two kids ages 4 and 5, trying (God willing) to start 15 month BSN program May '09. I want another kid (I think!) and I also want my BSN. I suffered from fertility issues, too, so it's not an easy thing to "just get pregnant" for me. It's such a toss-up. I'm happy with my family, but I've always wanted three and I feel like I'm going to deeply regret it if I don't suck it up and have another one. My BSN program only admits every two years, so waiting on the BSN is really not an option for me.

Sorry I don't have any solutions for you, but please know that you're not alone in your dilemna. I'm right there with you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in being a Credible Source.
Oh, my gosh, I could've written this post myself! I'm in the same boat...35, two kids ages 4 and 5, trying (God willing) to start 15 month BSN program May '09. I want another kid (I think!) and I also want my BSN. I suffered from fertility issues, too, so it's not an easy thing to "just get pregnant" for me. It's such a toss-up. I'm happy with my family, but I've always wanted three and I feel like I'm going to deeply regret it if I don't suck it up and have another one. My BSN program only admits every two years, so waiting on the BSN is really not an option for me.

Sorry I don't have any solutions for you, but please know that you're not alone in your dilemna. I'm right there with you.

It is a dilemma.

Of course, you're 'only' 35. In five years, you can still go to nursing school. In five years, you may not still be able to have a baby. I'm starting nursing school at the age of 43...

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Right-O! Thanks for pointing out the obvious. And I mean that in the most sincere way...Sometimes you can't see the forest for the trees!

That being said, I still don't know quite what I'm going to do...:icon_roll

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I don't want to seem mean or insensitive but, the op has two children already. If she was trying to have her first child then I would understand or "feel" for her dilemma.

Nursing school is tough by itself. Adding baby to the "mix" is like making life in nursing school harder than it has to be. Your nursing program is less than 2 years long. Get your degree first and then have your third baby after graduation.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med Surg, Hospice.

If I had to add a baby to nursing school and working full time mix, I'd have to admit myself to the Loony Bin. I know I could absolutley not handle another thing right now (at least for the next year or so).

Up Vote Up Vote ×

And on top of everything, every pregnancy is different. You never know what will happen during the pregnancy of after the birth. Good luck with whatever you decide.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ED.
Right-O! Thanks for pointing out the obvious. And I mean that in the most sincere way...Sometimes you can't see the forest for the trees!

That being said, I still don't know quite what I'm going to do...:icon_roll

I would seriously consider at least doing your first semester or getting through your first test, and THEN deciding whether a pregnancy during school will be do-able. I have heard the accelerated programs are VERY intense physically and mentally! I have to say I was really naive going into nursing school. I have a previous degree so I know what it is like to study for college classes. However, nursing school was more challenging than anything I have ever done and harder than I ever imagined it would be. It is hard to explain and you will see once you start!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I also vote for waiting to get pregnant until you're well into nursing school. I think perfect timing would be to graduate, take the NCLEX 6 weeks later, and then have a baby 4 weeks after that. Then start a job when you and baby are ready. But I'm aware that perfect timing is not usually possible. :) Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I broke down physically after awhile. As soon as I finished school I started to feel better again. (Now to lose the 40 pounds I gained....). Accelerated programs double everything up. 2 different clinical sites to prepare for each week etc.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med/Surg/Tele.

here's my story. started my pre reqs 1 mos after my third daughter was born, my motivation to persue higher education. Unexpectedly had baby #4 during pre reqs. made it! if given the choice look at whether your situation physically will allow you to have a baby after completing school. That would probably be less stressful and demanding of your energy and time. Also when done with school you'll make more $ and be able to work less and spend more time with kids if you want also. Or just be able to afford to do things with your family. I came from a family that had enough to pay the bills and not much more. I am excitedly planning our first annual family vacation to Orlando this coming up summer. As a mom to a mom, just remember however hard things seem, one day it will be finished and you will have that time with your family, and everyone has to make some sacrifices to get where they want to be. Good Luck

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in rehab, long-term care, ortho.

What does your hubby think, scastillo1? If you do both, he'll have to carry a large part of the baby load I would think (excuse the pun..lol). Do you think he is willing/able to help you as much as you'll need while you're in school?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment