"I wish I'd never had them": the pain of regretting kids

"I wish I'd never had them": the pain of regretting kids

From Ladies, We Need To Talk by ABC Australia

August 17, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

This episode explores the taboo of parental regret, particularly among mothers who wish they had never had children.

Having children is one of the most rewarding and meaningful things we can do. But what if you wish you'd never become a parent? For mothers especially, the taboo of admitting they regret their children can be incredibly lonely. Many carry their grief, loss of identity and exhaustion in silence. Yumi Stynes gets a rare window into the lives of people who love their children but admit that if they could go back in time, they'd make a different choice. Featured in this episode: Ella Reed, sociologist at Monash University researching maternal regret This episode will answer questions like: What does it feel like to regret having kids? Why do some parents regret having children? Where do you get help if you’re struggling as a parent? How does regretting children impact a romantic relationship? Why is maternal regret so taboo? What to listen to next: "Traded a husband for a bestie" Why these mums moved in together Worst ever dates, with Alita Brydon The grief no parent expects What to read next: Empty-nesters on how they 'fill the void' left by children Women on being in a sexless marriage and tips for reconnecting These grieving mothers want you to say their babies' names This episode…

People in this episode

Host: Yumi Stynes

Guest: Ella Reed

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Monash University

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