i'm pregnant with baby number 3.... why am i so unhappy about this pregnancy??? I can't seem to get excited about this and i am only 6.5 weeks. i'm pro-life and always have been but why do i tell myself every day i don't want this baby?? i always wanted a large family and i wasn't done after my two were born. my youngest is still a baby and in diapers - my oldest will be starting kindergarden in september. i guess because this wasn't planned and it was an oops is why i'm not happy about this. everyone around me seems to be so cheerful about it and when they bring it up i just cringe my teeth... is there something wrong with me? should i talk to my doctor before it's too late. my husband has accepted it. am i the only one out there that has these feelings??? i'm so unhappy it's affecting the relationship with my husband and my kids. what do i do???
So I've read everyone's comments and the whole reason why i wrote what i wrote is because sometimes you need a stranger looking in from the outside to tell you the 'truth" basically. I appreciate everyone's advice. And even though some comments were beyond my control everyone has their own opinions on different things. I have chosen from the moment i knew i was pregnant that i would be having this baby. but my feelings towards it were absolutely bizzarre and i felt alone. after reading responses and realizing that there are more woman out there than just me who have had these feelings, my sense of overwhelming eased up a bit. i'm still very nervous and i will be seeing the doctor to see about my hormones and depression; god has a plan for everyone and when you mess up his plan, it usually doesn't turn out the best in the end. i've accepted that. but also remember that woman have a choice of freedom now, before we never did our lives were ran by other people around us. yes abortion is always an option for the woman who choose to go through it, i would never misjudge anyone for that. you only walk in your own shoes and since you only walk in your own shoes then you are who decides the future for yourself. Long story short, thank you all for your caring thoughts and opinions and thank you mostly for those who have shared their overwhelming experiences with me as well. i hope by the end of October you will hear from me that this baby was either a boy or a girl!! i have two boys already but as long as it's healthy is what counts. i'm not big on the sex part. anyhow - i also wanted to mention to those of you who said they don't beleive in 'unplanned' pregnancies. let me tell you, there's a reason why we trust birth control until that birth control decides not to work. i was on yaz for 10 months and took it religiously..... so don't always trust in that contraceptive either. thanks again ladies... god bless and take care!
Featured Answers
D.W.
answers from
Jacksonville
on
Look around at all the parents out there that CAN'T have babies....you sound selfish.
Give the baby to someone who will appreciate it. Lots of people wanting a baby to love.
When people complain about "unplanned" pregnancies it sounds irresponsible. I have 4 children and I planned and wanted every one of them but I still get the "where they all planned" "What are you thinking" "How do you have time to do anything" "Get a hobby" comments all the time. Because when people who "accidently" have big families, they're quick to point out that it was an accident.
Report This
C.T.
answers from
Tampa
on
I will try and make it short.
After an vasectomy and waiting more than the appropriate time to have sex....I got pregnant. Needless to say, all hell broke loose. I did decide to continue the pregnancy and 9 months later my more than beautiful daughter was born. She is 31 now and making such a difference in the lives of 5th graders in the inner city school system. She is a great teacher and contributing more than her share to this world. Who knows why things happen to us or the reasons.....but my advice (if you decide) is to keep this baby. Who knows "who" you will be the mother of.
Report This
C.B.
answers from
Los Angeles
on
I think I could have written this one. I felt the exact same way with my third pregnancy. Counseling would probably help. I felt that way for most of my pregnancy....but the minute they put my son in my arms my depression was gone!
Report This
More Answers
J.C.
answers from
Fort Myers
on
My sister had an unplanned #3 close in age to #2 and she felt the same as you. Her dr. put her on anti-depressants as if she was experiencing "post partum" but just "pre partum". Probably b/c #2 was still so young and she was still hormonal from that. It helped her ALOT to get motivated and feel excited about the new baby. You may want to check with your dr.
1 mom found this helpful
Report This
B.A.
answers from
Miami
on
Hey E.,
I was in the same boat. My second was a oops too. I was really depressed when I found out. My life had just gotten adjusted to my little girl and I felt like I couldn't share love with the little one growing inside of me. It changed when I saw the ultrasound, felt him moving etc. When he arrived, he wasn't at all like his big sister. He was a little clingy, but had a happy personality. He takes life with smiles and is very laid back. Everyone who meets him goes away with a grin on their face. I know right now it seems like an elephant on your plate, but I know you will see the positive. I hope this helps.
1 mom found this helpful
Report This
R.M.
answers from
Nashville
on
I'm sure it is hormones also. Especially since you wanted more kids but just didn't want them timed this way. Not to say that it is "just hormones, get over it". Hormonal imbalances are very real! And I am sure that women who are suffering from post partum depression are also told they just need to adjust their attitudes. The great thing is that now we are more enlightened than that. (Well, most of us.) Good for you for reaching out and trying to work through this, you will get through it!
Talk to your doctor, talk to your husband, talk to anyone who can sympathize, even if they are thrilled with the pregnancy. Work through it before you start suffering from post partum depression, and before it really does affect your kids and your marriage. My husband didn't understand the first time I had depression, I had to educate him. After I got treatment of course. He just kept telling me to get over it, decide to be in a good mood already. It is not that simple. You will need help from your doctor. I'd talk to them first, so you know what to say to your husband.
My first pregnancy was unplanned, and we were in a terrible financial situation. I was a complete wreck. My husband had no idea what to do, couldn't bring himself to get excited because he was so worried about me. Unfortunately I didn't have a chance to work through it, I miscarried in the first trimester. Once I was on the mend, I was able to look back rationally and see that I needed help for depression/hormones. But it doesn't stop me from feeling guilty still. You just need to have some support and know that you can get through this. Talk to your doctor as soon as possible, they will reassure that it is totally normal. (And if they don't, find a new doctor.) Good luck!
1 mom found this helpful
Report This
C.H.
answers from
Miami
on
I am shocked at how insensitive some of these comments have been towards you. I think they are uncalled for. Telling someone to get over it and stop being selfish because other people suffer with infertility is a terrible thing to say.
I suffered from infertility and finally became pregnant with the aid of fertility drugs. And guess what? I felt like you do. After all of that, I couldn't talk about being pregnant, hear about it, think about it. I had to turn over the pregnancy books I had so I couldn't see them. I was very ill and could not get excited about anything. When we went to the appointment to check the heartbeat, my husband cried with joy and I sat there with no reaction, except trying not to throw up. I felt terrible guilt for feeling that way and couldn't understand it. I talked to no one at first because of the shame I felt. And eventually talked to my parents and my husband, which helped, although I don't think they understood the depth of what I was feeling.
You could be feeling overwhelmed with what you have already on your plate, you could be having hormonal issues, or feeling worn out, or any number of other things. Please talk to your doctor. See a therapist. Talk to your husband and anyone else who will listen. Do all of this before you make any decision that you may come to regret. I don't judge you, but seeing as you say you are pro-life, you want to be sure you are comfortable with any decision you make.
As I was in my last trimester, a friend called me to tell me that another friend of ours was having a tough time. I emailed her to tell her what I had been through, what I tried, what helped, and that I was here if she needed me. Within minutes my phone rang and she was in tears. She couldn't believe that someone could understand how she was feeling. You can see from many of these responses that there are many who have been through what you are going through. You aren't alone in this.
For me, I was feeling better and got more excited as I got well into the second trimester. My feelings passed and I became very excited and am thrilled to have my beautiful son. But, each person is different. Again, I ask you to talk to someone about how you are feeling, especially your doctor. And it is something the doctor should be aware of anyway, because if you are suffering from depression during the pregnancy, you should be watched for post-partum as well. I managed to escape that. Luckily.
I hope you find peace and can make the best decision for you and your family.
1 mom found this helpful
Report This
B.C.
answers from
Norfolk
on
I've heard it said that God doesn't give you anything you can't handle. I'd say your hormones are putting you through the wringer. Try not to look at it as an
oops. If you (heaven forbid) miscarried, you'd feel awful. You've been given a delightful surprise! You wanted a large family and your wish has been granted! There are couples who have terrible infertility problems that are envious and would absolutely love to be in your shoes. It's hard to find a silver lining sometimes, but eventually you will, and you will be just fine.
1 mom found this helpful
Report This
N.B.
answers from
Huntington
on
I was where you are a few months ago. my son was 3 months old when I got pregnant with #2. she was not planned, but i didn't want to be pregnant anymore, i was tired of it. now, 10 months later, he's 13 months andshe's a month. i love them both dearly, but I had a bad bought of the baby blues after she was born. i would go talk to a doctor a major hormone embalance could be the problem. talk to your husband, and together find out a way to talk to your other children about how mommy feels, you'd be surprised at how well they can handle it
Report This
K.M.
answers from
Tampa
on
Please check your nutrition- making babies' bodies take ALOT from mom, and no one can feel excited if you are missing nutirents- check with WestonPrice.com- they have the best longest standing nutrition- and for me I looked and WOW I knew I needed to eat differently- and wow then I felt great-
please take care of yourself please
best, k
Report This
S.G.
answers from
Philadelphia
on
I am 30 weeks today with #3, which was totally unplanned. Except, unlike you, I was done having kids (we were happy with our 2 girls)...and then BAM! I find out I'm pregnant again. I was in the same boat you are now. I cried every day, wondered how & why this happened, and so on. I called my husband and mother in hysterics telling them the news. No one even had a clue it was a possibility. I was a little late and only had a blood test done to put my nerves at ease. Imagine my shock when the doctor called to tell me it was positive.
But rest assured...there is light thru the tunnel. It took me awhile to totally get on board with this pregnancy, but now I am in the home stretch and am enjoying every minute of it. I have faith that you will too (especially because you said you still wanted to have more children). I think it really has a lot to do with the fact that it was a surprise. You are probably feeling kinda jipped about not being able to plan everything out and truly enjoy that first moment of finding out you are pregnant. Give it time and you'll embrace it.
Good luck & Congrats!!!
PS - Feel free to message me anytime you need to talk! =)
Report This
H.A.
answers from
Miami
on
i feel ya! i was sooo bummed when i oopsed my second pregnancy. my first baby was still in diapers and nursing and i felt i didnt have room in my heart or life for another one. plus, we were just kinda returning to normalcy after the first one! i was seriously debating not going through with it. but you know what, towards the end as it became more real, i started internally bonding with that little guy. used my newfound mother experience to really "do it right" this go round...lots of prenatal yoga (check out yogafairy.com, elizabeth bonet offers great classes/support groups), and studied up on hypnobirthing. turned the pregnancy into an empowering experience and a beautiful birth. now, yes, life is a little more hectic, but that little angel is such an awesome addition to my life..just the added joy my heart needed but didn't know it! good luck! (and dont forget your hormones are going crazy right now, that's normal!!)
Report This
M.A.
answers from
Tampa
on
My sister was in the same boat, pretty much. She has 3 children and had an oops. I offered to adopt the baby and help out during her pregnancy. I think she felt overwhelmed and was afraid how it would affect her other children if she gave it up for adoption. I'm sure she felt it would effect her relationship negatively and financial hurt her family. I'm the only one she told and she decided to take the abortion pill. I was sad with her decision but I love her and support her unconditionally. What ever you decide good luck to you. I'm not sure if this helped or not but I'll keep you in my prayers.
Report This
H.K.
answers from
Gainesville
on
look on the bright side! This baby may grow up to be the one that takes care of you when you are old! I have struggled with the same feelings that overwhelm you now, It will get better, our hormones get all out of whack at first, like so many have already said. I am happy for both of my children, but the second one took awhile to accept because I wanted to space them a little more apart. I had to get over the fact that it wasn't like I first wanted and then I became happy accepting the fact and getting ready for my beautiful...smiling...bubbly little angel son!
Report This
N.B.
answers from
Bangor
on
I don't think there's really any such thing as unplanned pregnancy. If you don't want to get pregnant then don't have sex. Granted, when you're married you're supposed to have sex as this is beneficial to both you and your husband. But if you're not looking to have kids at a certain time, then there's always condoms and what not. I'm also pro-life, and my husband and I don't believe in birth control because with some of them, you can still get pregnant but have an abortion without knowing it, basically. Which is why I suggested condoms and not any specific type of birth control.
It sounds like what you need most is an attitude adjustment, honestly. Stop looking at it like a bad thing simply because you didn't plan for it. God planned it for you, so He has plans for your baby and for you and your family. He knows what He's doing. I say this without knowing your beliefs, but I hope that you can understand where I'm coming from. This baby is a blessing to you and your family. Chances are, you're simply hormonal and emotional right now, and that's why you're not thinking too clearly right now. Just take a deep breath and remind yourself that this baby is a blessing. I hope this helped. Congratulations!
Report This
K.G.
answers from
Detroit
on
Hang in there! It will get better. We planned our 4th and current prgnancy and I still had a hard time getting excited about it. Looking back I am pretty sure that I was suffering from some pregnancy enduced depresson for the first several months of my pregnancy.
Many Blessings, K.
Report This
H.J.
answers from
Minneapolis
on
We are 30 weeks now with our third, very much so an unplanned pregnancy. I also suffered dearly and spent a lot of time in the hospital the first 18 weeks. I still just don't know. I am happy one minute that I get to see what another child that my hubby and I created will look and be like but then the next minute I am freaking out not wanting the baby. It is crazy cause I never felt this way with my other two. I feel bad about it. You are not alone. I really worry about it. My hubby is so excited especially now that we are getting closer to D-day! I guess this isn't much help other then that you are not alone. I know though deep down that I will never have any regrets for such a wonderful gift from god!!
Report This
R.D.
answers from
San Francisco
on
First off I'm sorry to hear how you feel however with one still in diapers its hard to accept another little one coming along. I know that your intentions are good and again you obviously planned the other two. Sometimes when we are caught off guard we don't accept things as they are. You may have had plans after your second being out of diapers, possibly giving you more me time and all of a sudden.... I do think in time you will accept the pregnancy, I think it has just spooked you. Like you said you always wanted a big family but your way by saying okay its time. Its just like someone saying to you, i.e. are you going to the shower tomorrow? You had forgot and all of a sudden you have to get out, buy something and ready yourself.
Its early yet, just give yourself time to adjust and it will happen. My daughter experienced the same thing, once she was about 12wks. and started feeling that little bit of movement she started feeling different. Its not easy having one in diapers and one on the way. My daughter her children were 7 and 11 and she wasn't going to have anymore. She had a beautiful baby girl and she is the light of their lives. You will adjust, your hormones are running rampant right now. Hopefully this helps you and don't feel so down on yourself, you will perk up!! Good luck and take care.
Report This
K.H.
answers from
Boston
on
i know how hard an unplanned pregnancy is. my daughter was one, i was sick alot during my second one, i know this doesnt help but i do know how u feel, i was there. i am pro-life, unless it is medically nessecary to end the pregnancy. i also think that part of the problem is a hormone imbalance, i know my unhappiness for my second was a hormone problem. there isnt alot they could do for the hormone imbalance for me, but now i am not sure. i would talk to your doctor about it and explain to him how you feel and what is going on with you. i dont think you need an attitude adjustment. i think it is more then that. discuss it with your husband too and family. they all should be on board with whats going on...might be easier for them to know so they can all pitch in more. o btw i have a 13 yr old daughter now who i wouldnt have passed up for the world!. good luck and congrats.
Report This
C.O.
answers from
Miami
on
Hi E.,
I know it must seem overwhelming being pregnant with two little ones already at home. First let me say that a child is a gift from God, and God knows what a great mother you will be to this child.
Second, you may be feeling this way because your hormones haven't leveled out yet from your last baby. (I know mine haven't) Talk to your obgyn about how you are feeling she may be able to recommend a safe prescription or even something holistic like Cod liver oil and butter oil (which I am taking and have really helped).
If you need someone to talk to about this you can also contact Hope Women's Center ###-###-####. They give unplanned pregnancy counseling and everything is free.
Pray for God to change your feelings towards this pregnancy and He will and you will see once your baby is born you won't be able to image life without your extra addition.
God bless you and your little ones
Report This
A.G.
answers from
Dallas
on
I'm so sorry you are struggling. I had a very difficult time with my second pregnancy. I felt the same way you do, and I had a hard time after the birth of my son as well. I truly believe it was hormones that made me feel the way I did, though I don't know if I would have believed you if you told me that at the time. I wish I had sought help after my son was born so that I would have bonded with him sooner. Now he is almost six, and I can't imagine my life without him, but during pregnancy and for about the first six months of his life, I was an emotional wreck. I kept all of my feelings to myself. You are doing a wonderful thing by reaching out. Now talk to your doctor and your husband. See what they suggest. You will get through this, and you will have a wonderful new family member when all is said and done. Right now you need to care for yourself and allow others to help you.
Report This
A.S.
answers from
Boca Raton
on
This probably won't help but I am so envious - wanted a third baby so badly and was horrified to learn that my ovaries had almost completely stopped working by the time I was 37.
Good luck to you - and know that other moms would love to be in your shoes.
You have a right to your feelings - nurture yourself and do the best you can.
Report This
C.M.
answers from
Boca Raton
on
I haven't been in your situation, but I just wanted to send you a note of encouragement. I've read recently that the third pregnancy is usually the most difficult (hormonally, etc) and many women experience some level of depression during or afterwards so you are not alone! And the fact that this isn't a planned pregnancy would make it more difficult to adjust to. Just know that you will never be sorry for choosing life. I wish you the best, and I will say a prayer for you.
Report This
P.L.
answers from
Hartford
on
I would talk to your doctor about your feelings and concerns a.s.a.p.! I have a feeling that just talking about your situation will make you feel a little bit better!!!! Hang in there!!!!
Report This
C.S.
answers from
Fort Myers
on
I can completely relate with you. I was very upset when I found out I was pregnant with our third (baby girl). She was NOT planned at all. It took me a while, like a couple of months, to not only accept it but to be at peace and know God had blessed us again.
I think you should allow yourself some time to feel how you feel. It's a big change that's going to happen. You are fully aware of what not only the pregnancy will bring but also how much the birth of a baby changes your life.
I will tell you that our third is such a joy in our lives. She is 6 mths old now and her smile just lights up the room. She (in my opinion) is easier than my two older ones.
I hope this has helped. You are more than welcomed to contact me
if you like.
Report This
L.O.
answers from
Miami
on
It's your hormones. When you find yourself saying "I don't want this baby" try to switch it by saying "I DO want this baby"! The war of the mind is the most difficult one to fight because you are the only one that can fight with your thoughts. That is why the only way to be strong is to say positive affirmations.
Belivieve me, I understand. I am pregnant with #3, inplanned, we are in a financial crisis, I have both kids at home 4 yrs and 2 yrs, I am crazy sick all the time & I am mostly alone day and night. With each baby comes new blessings. Have Hope and Faith. Great Luck!!!
Report This
L.L.
answers from
Seattle
on
I have not read through the responses, but you mentioned that your youngest is still a baby. Is there maybe some postpartum depression lingering?
Updated
I have not read through the responses, but you mentioned that your youngest is still a baby. Is there maybe some postpartum depression lingering?
Report This
K.H.
answers from
Chicago
on
I don't think anything is wrong with you. I think you are going through an adjustment. You didn't plan for this. I don't know how you usually respond to something when it is unplanned, but it just sounds like you are still struggling with the fact you didn't plan it and possibly feel unprepared (in many ways- even emotionally). Some of the greatest blessings are those that are unplanned.
I know a couple of people this has happened to...one ...i don't think her mind changed until she gave birth and then when she saw her child she was so grateful, but guilt set in for how she originally felt. i think that guilt has impacted how she parents and the anger she felt during the pregnancy impacted the child. The other woman came to terms with it earlier in the pregnancy, very honest with how it shocked her and that she didn't feel ready for this. But, she moved past it early on and was very happy.
You can't fake it, but try to work through the feelings you are having and face it without letting the guilt attach onto you. We are never in as much control over things as we would like to be. Nothing is a mistake. The Lord allowed this life to be given to you and your family. You have no idea all that the future holds and the purpose for this. Hopefully, the exciting part for you will be that journey of finding out.
Take a look at why you are really unhappy about this, especially since you state you always wanted a large family. Are you overwhelmed with the two you have? Always tired? Don't feel ready? Feel you will never have time for yourself? I don't think you will get to the bottom of it until you look at the truth of why this makes you so unhappy. If it is only because it is an "oops"...then, you have to decide if you will choose to let that go and embrace what you feel was an "oops."
When things like this happen...especially when we know it will impact so much of our lives...we are in shock and it can take time to get comfortable with an idea.
I hope the best for you and your family.
Report This
P.B.
answers from
Boca Raton
on
With the youngest still in diapers, I understand. To be honest, I felt some of the same feelings with our number 3. (the lack of excitement, the wishing something were different...) But when I first felt her move, there was a change. God in His sovereign wisdom had chosen to give this precious gift to us, and I began to see that this little one was sent as a blessing, though an unexpected one. She is a precious little girl, and brings delight to all of us. I couldn't imagine life without her.
Report This
J.A.
answers from
Jacksonville
on
Talk to your husband about it, and talk to your doctor. It may just be the hormones, it may be something more. Don't be afraid to get some counseling to sort it all out. No there isn't anything wrong with you. I dreaded the whole thing with my last pregancy, but after my daughter arrived it was all fine.
Report This
L.B.
answers from
Chicago
on
Same thing happened to me with #3. I felt stressed with caring for 2 and I was afraid the third would push me over the edge. It felt like I had no control over my life. The timing was spooky because I had just started seeing a therapist. She helped me through these feelings and more. I learned so much with her about parenting and working through relationship issues with my husband and family that I feel she finished raising me. Getting help to process my emotions improved my life in ways I never though possible. I used to live in feeling overwhelmed. Now I have tools that help feel more in control.
Report This
J.K.
answers from
Gainesville
on
If you know that ultimately you do want this baby, and that is what it sounds like, you are just uncertain about the timing, it will all work out. Chances are you are having early pregnancy hormonal issues. You need to get more sleep, drink more water, and yes, talk to your doctor. And talk more to your husband too. He might be able to help. I'm sure that with two small kids there already you are tired; that on top of pregnancy can be a bit much for anyone.
Report This
...
answers from
Phoenix
on
I just wanted to encourage you. I understand how you must feel. I'm praying that you can get your hormones and emotions under control. I understand about hormone imbalance and depression. I'm pregnant with #5 and I'm 39 years old. We weren't planning on having any more either. I think that your feelings will change once you get farther along and start feeling baby move. Hang in there and congratulations. Things will look brighter for you soon!
Report This
L.W.
answers from
Miami
on
You are not alone in this. I wanted my children 2-2.5 years apart. But I got pregnant with number 3 when my second was only six months old. I was on the pill, and it was a shock. I was devastated. All of these awful thoughts ran through my mind. I spent the first month crying and the next few after that just being grumpy. I had to come to terms with the fact that it was happening and I had to deal. My family needed me. If you need to talk to someone, a counselor even, then do. I just leaned more on my husband and friends. I was honest about how I felt with them. And they were all very supportive. It was tough. When I was 9 mos. along, my husband deployed and didn't return until my daughter was 1 month old. But I got into a routine, and plugged along. And I survived. We had our rough moments, but the kids are all fine too. You will make it, just don't be afraid to ask for support. And, perhaps consider and IUD after this one. That's what I did. I got it removed and had another child 2.5 years after my third, planned. Then I got my tubes tied. Looking back, I can see what a blessing it ended up being. My oops child is my only girl.
After I read someone else's answer, I wanted to respond to that. My sister has been struggling trying to get pregnant at all. She was mad at me because I was so upset about my third child. But I don't think she had any right to be mad at me. How you feel is how you feel, it is something you have to work through. It is no one's place to tell you how you should feel because of how THEY feel. Yes, it's unfortunate that people have trouble, but that doesn't make your issue any less of one, just different. If my tubal were to fail and I got pregnant again, I would be devastated. We cannot afford another child, financially or otherwise. Our budget is stretched as tight as it can go. My sister only has one child to pay for. That's the truth of the situation. And I shouldn't be made to feel guilty for reality.
Report This
J.J.
answers from
Tallahassee
on
Here's what you do: you look around and count your blessings. One, two, three, four. You have FOUR blessings now (including your husband). Be grateful. Get counseling if you have to, but address these feelings and get passed them. Know that there are others out there who would love to be in your shoes. Personally I have been trying to conceive for 19 months and so far - nothing. Remember: one, two, three, four. Aren't you lucky? And, as a side note, you may want to take the proper precautions to prevent further pregnancies.
Report This
S.C.
answers from
Detroit
on
your just in shock is all,
i WOULD talk to your doctor for sure. but i guaqrentee you over time as your pregnancy goes on and your little life develops inside of you, he/she will steal your heart and you will lose that feeling of not wanting this. either way this baby is comin and you are gonna be prego for 10 mths, you mine as well enjoy it!!! that's how i look at it. good luck i'm here if u would like to talk to someone.
Report This
T.T.
answers from
Wausau
on
I had this happen to me at 40. He was my fifth child and my husband had just quit his job and we started our own business. We didn't have any insurance and I was shocked to say the least. Well it's now 7 years later and I can't imagine my life without him. He was the reason I decided to shed those last 10 lbs and get healthy because I needed to raise all my kids and be a good mother. Knowing I would be 58 when he graduated was a great incentive to do this. I have the joy of having my oldest graduate this year and go to college and also to see the world through the eyes of a 7 year old. It's true that when this baby comes, you youngest will be nine months older and love to help. My kids are now 18, 16, 13, 11 and 7 so I was overwhelmed when he came along but I got myself into the mindset that these things happen for a reason. I also worked as a graphic artist for our business and homeschooled the kids until high school so it was a busy time. But let me tell you it all worked out and I wouldn't have had it any other way. So congratulations and just enjoy every moment for what it is. Just take it a day at a time. I'm a worrier and had to practice that but life is so much easier and less stressful if you can. I don't give my kids a lot of material things but I do give them my time and I know that's the right thing to do. Good luck and we'll all be praying for you.
Report This
L.E.
answers from
Los Angeles
on
Hi, E.,
I think that my response differs from many of the previous ones. I struggled with infertility for some years, so I was tremendously excited to have my first live child. The next pregnancy, which came just six months after the first birth, was unplanned and a huge surprise. (I was already 41.) I had mixed feeling about my second. I had just gotten used to having a baby. Plus I was (and still am) in graduate school. In addition, my husband's career is not secure. Although I love both my kids and was a teacher for many years, I still have mixed feelings about being a mother, esp. of more than one child. (My kids are now 3 and 2.) Unlike some of the mothers on this board, I didn't suddenly start feeling wonderful about having another child as soon as my second was born, and I don't think that a change in hormone levels would drastically affect how I feel about the situation.
Most mothers don't like to admit that they don't always like being a mother. I respect women who can admit that motherhood is not for everybody and not always wonderful.
I do hope that it will get better for you, though. One thing that you might try if you have not already is mindfulness (meditation). Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD, a psychologist, and Gloria Kamler, my mindfulness instructor, offer good books and CDs to help guide people in mindfulness exercises. I've found that doing the easy, relaxing exercises has helped me think of solutions to problems without trying to solve the problems and feel better about situations that I cannot change.
Best wishes,
Lynne
Report This
N.K.
answers from
Miami
on
I felt the same way, I was doing this alone without the support of someone who loved me, it was unplanned (I was on birth control), and wondering if it was the right choice. I am glad I had my daughter though, and I am sure that once you hold your child, spend time bonding and growing together, you will not regret your decision to go along with it. Depression, feeling like you're carrying all this weight on your shoulders and feeling lonely can make you doubt yourself, especially if you weren't planning for the baby. At least you have the luck of having a husband and being able to conceive children, something a lot of women don't and they wish they did, so be happy for that and talk to your husband about your feelings. You can also try marriage counseling, and therapy, to help you become adjusted to the fact that you soon will have another family member. I don't judge you nor do I like to judge people or resort to name calling, as other people have done in this discussion forum. I am merely trying to offer solutions and support in letting you know you're not alone.
Report This
K.G.
answers from
St. Louis
on
I felt that way with my second. And now pregnant with my third, I am still in denial, even though I'm 12 weeks along.
I'm pretty sure that I felt that way because I thought I didn't have room in my heart for another one. I was happy with the way my life was going, and this was a huge change on the horizon. I was not excited about having to go through the adjustment. Plus, the pregnancy itself was beastly, as is this one.
Anyway, I just want to let you know that you are not alone. I think many of us go through it. I think you should talk to your doctor, but mostly, I think you should talk to your husband. Let him know how you are feeling. Once I finally had that conversation with mine (who was so super excited about the baby), it was a lot easier for me to be me at home and feel all the feelings I had.
When our second was born, it took me a while to get used to him. Now I can't imagine life without him! I am sure that it will be the same with the next one.
Report This
M.L.
answers from
Miami
on
I felt the same way when I got pregnant with baby # 3 it was unplanned and just not the right moment at all. It may take a while for you to get used the idea but you will don't worry. Just try to snap your way out of it think positive when those negative thoughts come to mind. Remember children are a blessing from God and he will not give you more than you can handle everything will fall into place you'll see. My son is 6 months old now and I am truely happy even though financially things did not get easier for us I was actually laid off 3 weeks into my maternity leave but it all fell into place. It's amazing the adjustments you can make when needed you will be fine. Good luck and mention it to your doctor anyways maybe he can help.
Report This
B.A.
answers from
Tampa
on
Give it time... it's still a shock. Your feelings will change.
Report This
K.F.
answers from
New York
on
As women our emotions can be very overwhelming but with maturity we can learn how to develop and master our emotions and not allow them to master us
Does it really matter that through no control of your own, you are being blessed with another child to love? Are you going to choose to start loving this baby now or are you going to allow your emotions to dictate otherwise? This little one is a part of you even right now. If you could see that precious little face could you choose to put your emotions to the side and choose to lavish this surprise with love too?
No matter what wouldn't you want to be loved even if you weren't expected? Please be encouraged.
Report This
K.B.
answers from
Houston
on
Talk to your doctor but talk to your husband too. Get as much help now with the other 2 as you can so that you can rest. Remember your 2nd one will be 9 months older by the time the baby comes. A lot changes in 9 months and your current "baby" will be a little more independent and more manageable by the time the new baby comes. You have lots of time to prepare and get excited, don't beat yourself up! When I was pregnant with my 3rd I remember days when I thought, what have I done! And he was totally planned!!!
Good luck,
K.
Report This
L.W.
answers from
Kansas City
on
Hang in there! Don't let anyone out there make you feel bad. You are writing because you are surprised about your own reaction and want to feel happier about it...that is obvious! We had a great surprise with our last one and I could hardly talk about it for several months. I knew that once he came I would feel differently, but it is okay to acknowledge that pregnancy and caring for young children is hard work! Take care of yourself and be kind to yourself. I agree with everyone who says to talk with others. You could be struggling with depression or adjusting to a hormone imbalance, so you need to be aware of the best ways to be proactive about this.
I promise once you see that little face, everything else will fade away, but until then, take care of yourself physically and emotionally so that you can take care of those other little ones. Maybe your husband will look at this as a reason to pamper you a little bit :)