So, do you want to have children someday? We’ve all been there: cornered at the party and asked that inappropriate question you don’t know how to answer. Because while 13-year-old you might have dreamed of getting married and having 2.4 children, grown-up you knows it isn't quite that simple. The cost of raising a child born last year to the age of 21 is now £231,843 - for context, that's more than the average price of a house in the UK. Factor in a world that's in flux, along with environmental concerns and it isn't hard to see why one in every five women now reaches the age of 45 without having children. These women reveal why they're staying childfree.

The woman who doesn't want to juggle

Lizi, 25, Leeds.

'Having children doesn't fit into the lifestyle I want to lead – personally or professionally. I know that if I took a year out to have a baby, both my career and my finances would take a hit. I want to be able to throw everything I’ve got into my career, and that wouldn’t be fair on a child. I also have reservations about bringing a child into the world in a political climate I don’t agree with as I worry about the opportunities they would have in the future.’

The woman who loves to travel

Ashanti, 28, London

‘I'm fascinated by pregnancy and childbirth. I've been a birthing partner twice, I admire the strength of mothers and was deeply touched to be a part of that experience. But I've never felt a strong urge to have children of my own. Being a good parent requires commitment, sacrifice and patience. I'm unashamed of my desire to live a life of travel, dining and business without having to worry about meeting the needs of any children. As far as I’m concerned, my womb is closed for business, and I’m totally at peace with that.’

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The woman who's always known

Mollie, 38, London

‘I did a lot of babysitting when I was younger and spent four summers as a camp counsellor. Perhaps those experiences influenced how I wanted to live my life later on. When I was in my 20s, people always used to tell me I’d change my mind, and it really offended me. When I was dating, I’d always be upfront with guys, and most didn’t care – probably because they didn’t have the social pressure piled on them that women do. Now I’m married, and my husband isn't bothered by my decision, which I’m grateful for. But I’m always worried that one day he’ll change his mind. I think it would be a tough situation to find a compromise for. We enjoy our lifestyle as it is, just the two of us, and a rescued Staffie. I have made the conscious decision to be childfree and I am entitled to live my life as I like.’

The woman who has a genetic condition

Shona, 20, Hull

‘I decided at a young age I didn't want children. I have Marfan Syndrome and I have a 50/50 chance of passing it on. I don't want to pass it on, therefore, I won't be having children. But also, I'm just not very maternal. While I love my nephew, I couldn't imagine looking after a child full time. Regardless, I’m happy with my decision – it’s everyone else who seems to have a problem with it.’

The woman who prefers adulting

India, 25, Leeds

‘I've never wanted children, and no, I won’t be changing my mind. I don't actually get why anyone would want children; as babies, they're boring, as toddlers they're annoying, as teenagers they hate you. You might finally get along when they’re adults but by that stage, they’ve got their own lives and they don’t particularly care about yours. From what I can tell, that's 18 years of no impulse buying, no last minute holidays, no staying out late and not being your own person. What’s the point?’

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