Are you ready to expand your family? Or are things just fine the way they are? Here are some financial and personal factors to consider.

Another baby? The thought may bring you images of joyful trips to the park and Thanksgiving meals for years to come with your happy set of siblings. Or it may bring images of another round of poopy diapers and sleepless nights, along with some nasty sibling rivalry. Should you do it again? For many couples, this is a complicated decision that doesn't have a right or wrong answer. Here are some of the things you might consider.

Financial Factors.

Can you afford to have another child? Sit down and figure out realistically how much another little one will cost. You probably won't need a brand new high chair and all the things you purchased the first time around, but you will need lots of diapers and wipes and baby food and possibly formula. You might also have added health care and day care costs. In addition, an additional child might require a larger car or home. Of course, if having another baby means adoption, surrogacy, or fertility treatments, you can expect some serious expenses. And don't forget the long term costs of children, such as college tuition.

Keep in mind, though, that having a child is always expensive. If you really want another child and you can swing it financially--even if it's difficult and requires some sacrifice--it might be worth it to you regardless.

Career Factors.

Realistically, how will having another child affect the careers of you and your partner? Will this mean that someone will need to or want to become a stay-at-home parent? Will the current stay-at-home parent have to postpone an anticipated return back to the workforce? Ask yourself if you're willing to put your career on hold for another child-- or if you're willing to put your family on hold for your career.

Age Factors.

If you're older, you might have qualms about how old you might be when the child graduates from high school, or about the increased health and genetic risks that come with having a baby at an advanced age. On the other hand, older parents might choose to go ahead and have another baby now, before they get any older. If you're young, you might choose to wait awhile before bringing in the added financial and emotional responsibilities of a second child. Or you might choose to complete your family sooner than later, as this will mean an empty nest while you're still young and energetic.

Health Factors.

Pregnancy can be much easier if you're healthy, so weigh your health into your consideration. Would it be better to lose some weight or stop smoking before having another baby? If you're prone to high risk pregnancies or have a serious medical condition, consider whether or not you want to be pregnant again under those circumstances. if you currently take medication that is not recommended for pregnant women, be sure to discuss your options with your doctor before you get pregnant. In addition, if you are over 35 or have reason to suspect you or your partner may pass along a serious health problem or genetic disorder to your child, keep this in mind as you make your decision. Consider mental health issues as well.

Sibling Factors.

There are pluses and minuses to having an only child, having a huge family, and everything in between. Another child means less attention and resources for existing children. On the other hand, it also means a new playmate and, hopefully, a beloved friend for life. If you and your partner have children from a previously relationship, consider how the dynamics of a new child will affect your blended family.

Relationship Factors.

A new baby is just about always a strain on a relationship, so ask yourself if your relationship is strong enough to handle the stress. Don't make the mistake of thinking a new baby will repair your damaged relationship by bringing you closer together.

Gender Issues.

So you have two little boys, and you've always wanted a little girl, so should you try one more time? Maybe, but think this through very carefully. Your chances are exactly 50%. If you suspect you'll have regrets if your wishes don't come true, maybe you shouldn't play the odds.

What Do You Really Want?

Although there are many factors to consider, it may all come down to this: do you want another baby? No one can answer this other than you and your partner. If you have an only child and are thrilled with your family the way it is, ignore your best friend's plea that your baby needs a sibling. If you already have three kids and really want one more, ignore the horrified look on your mother's face when you tell her there's another on the way. Yes, you need to consider issues like finances and health, but you also need to follow your heart. It's your body, your life, and your family.

See also:

10 Things Never to Say to a Pregnant Woman