Childfree Among Young Couples, Understand Its Impact On Physical And Mental Health

Illustration of childfree pairs (Pexels/Emma Bauso)

JAKARTA - The decision to marry without having children or childfree is a topic that is getting warmer and more discussed in the community, especially among young couples.

This choice often raises debate, both in the real world and on social media, because it touches traditional values that have been upheld. However, what is the real impact of this decision?

Responding to this, Public Health Expert dr. Ngabila Salama revealed a number of impacts that the couple might likely feel if they make a decision to be childfree.

"Decisions for childfree can have a certain impact on the health of women's reproduction, both positive and negative, depending on the physical, mental, and lifestyle conditions under way," Ngabila said as quoted by Antara.

The Head of the Medical and Nursing Service Section of the Tamansari Hospital said that the couple's decision to childfree did not only have a bad impact. On the other hand, this decision helps reduce the risk of complications of pregnancy and childbirth.

Women who are never pregnant or give birth will certainly avoid related medical risks such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or delivery trauma.

The next positive thing is that your partner has a greater chance of maintaining his physical health. Without pregnancy, the body does not experience major changes such as drastic weight gain, hormonal changes during pregnancy, or long-term impacts on the pelvic floor muscles due to childbirth.

Couples are also able to control reproductive health better. He explained that women who choose childfree are often more aware of the importance of maintaining their reproductive health.

"For example, they routinely carry out health checks, both pap smear, HPV tests and avoid the risk of sexually transmitted infections," said Ngabila.

However, the bad effects of childfree decisions cannot be ignored. According to Ngabila, the risk of certain cancers can increase in women.

Not getting pregnant or not breastfeeding can increase the risk of ovarian cancer and breast cancer, because pregnancy and breastfeeding help suppress ovulation and reduce exposure to the hormone estrogen, which is related to the risk of cancer.

Women who are not pregnant may also be more at risk of developing endometrosis, as ovulation continues every menstrual cycle without a break usually given by pregnancy. Not to mention the potential for hormonal problems.

"Not having a pregnancy means the body does not experience hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, which in some cases can provide benefits such as reducing the risk of polyactive ovarian syndrome (PCOS)," he said.

Childfree, also has a psychological impact. Although the decision provides mental freedom, for some women, social pressure or regret in the future can affect mental health. This is important to consider well, with your partner if any.

"The impact of childfree for the reproductive health of women varies depending on individual lifestyles and conditions. Women who choose childfree should maintain reproductive health with a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, routine examinations, and consultations with doctors if necessary," he said.