Here are some practical factors to consider.

Job importance
How much of your identity comes from your job? How much satisfaction do you get from it? How would you feel if you relinquished that? Some women dislike their jobs, so quitting is hardly a sacrifice. Some have already achieved their goals and wish to move to a new chapter. Some feel aimless and inconsequential without a career.

Childhood memories:
You may have fond memories of your mother greeting you at home every day, or you might have been a latchkey kid who was miserable returning to an empty house. On the other hand, especially as you grew up, you could have felt smothered by a hovering maternal presence — or been glad to function independently. How do your feelings influence what you want for your children?

Spousal support:
Does your husband support your staying home? Does he feel strongly one way or the other?

Finances:
Can you afford to forgo your income? Or, with the lack of costs for child care, commuting and such, will you break even or come out ahead? Will your husband be overwhelmed by assuming the family’s full financial burden? Is his income secure?

Cabin fever:
Feelings of isolation, and a lack of adults to talk to, constitute a big problem for stay-at-home mothers. Will you be able to cope, maybe by volunteering, working part-time or joining a mother’s group?

Time off:
Oddly, mothers sometimes have more time for themselves on the job than at home. They can take breaks, zone out and organize their own time. At home, there are constant demands and no escape. Full-time mothering is as tough as any other full-time job — sometimes even tougher.

Dr. Gail’s Bottom Line:
Make your decision on the basis of what’s right for you and your family. No matter what you choose, be prepared to doubt it — and remember that your decision is not irrevocable.