Should I Have Another Baby?

Should I Have Another Baby?

From Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel by Esther Perel Global Media

April 6, 2026 · 46 min · Season 8 · Episode 38

About this episode

The episode explores a caller's internal conflict about wanting another child after a traumatic start to motherhood.

When we become parents, many of us quietly promise ourselves that we won't be like our parents. We're going to do it differently. This week’s caller finds herself wrestling with a deeper question: Is her longing for another child born from genuine desire or from defiance? After a traumatic start to motherhood, she's now yearning for another child. But beneath that yearning lies the doubt: Am I doing this for me, or to prove that I’m not like her? Esther Callings are a one time, 45-60 minute interventional phone call with Esther. They are edited for time, clarity, and anonymity. If you have a question you would like to talk through with Esther, send a voice memo to producer@estherperel.com. My annual Sessions Live two-day live event is coming up next month! Through clinical, cultural, and creative perspectives, Sessions Live 2026: Cultivating Aliveness: Desire & Its Disruptions explores how relationships are evolving, and how we can translate those insights into practice. Whether you’re a practicing clinician or curious mind, you’ll discover fresh insights and takeaways to help you connect and thrive. Come see me live on May 15th and 16th in NYC! Podcast listeners get a special…

People in this episode

Host: Esther Perel

Topics covered

  • parenting
  • desire
  • identity
  • motherhood
  • trauma

Keywords

  • parenting
  • motherhood
  • desire
  • trauma
  • identity

Sponsors

Sessions Live, Sessions Live

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Esther Perel Global Media

Places: NYC

More episodes of Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel podcast page.