I know sometimes it might feel like you are the only one on the planet who doesn’t want kids, especially as your mailbox fills with baby shower invites and friends with new babies suddenly disappear from your radar screen.

But the truth is, there are lots of people out there who don’t want children! An online community like Married No Kids connects like-minded people who are scattered around the world.

Sometimes the alienation we feel can be resolved if those around us understand our choice to remain childfree a little bit better. One step toward that solution is arming yourself with the facts.

First, you need to know what your reasons are for not wanting kids, so you can clearly articulate them to others. Those reasons are personal, and may include anything ranging from actually not liking children to a desire not to add to the 6 billion plus population of this planet -- and everything in between! Whatever your reasons, they are YOUR REASONS. Don’t be ashamed of them.

Second, it may help to know some statistics from the United States Census Bureau.

Did you know …

…more than 40 percent of women who are in their childbearing years have no children

…women who live in metropolitan areas and are affluent are more likely to be child free

…more than 47 percent of women who make more than $75,000 a year have no children

…40 percent of those who make less than $20,000 are childless

…more than 50 percent of Asian-American women are childless

…Latinas are the most likely ethnic group to have children

Of course, for some it won’t matter how much you try to explain. They will never understand why you don’t want children.

But in most situations, knowing more about the childfree community will work to your advantage.

Remember, this may be the first time your friend, family member, or co-worker has ever met someone who doesn’t want to have children. Since they are bombarded by the same pro-family culture that you are, it may be difficult for them to understand your decision.

Talking openly about your choice can go a long way. Give it a try!