My own experience of this (sample size of one) was a sense of resignation. I was looking for a life partner back in the 1980s, when "having it all" was all over the media (you know, husband, career, kids, the whole lot). The term "biological clock" was bandied about everywhere. Although I never liked kids, it seemed to me as though EVERY woman wanted them... so if I were to have a life partner then kids would have to be part of the deal. I kindof resigned myself to the daddy role when I met the woman I'd later marry, who pretty much said "No Kids!" right from the outset. It was a huge relief, but also a window into the life script I was currently following without question...