How to Feel About the Feedback People Are Giving Me About My Third Pregnancy....

Updated on April 02, 2009
J.H. asks from Stanwood, WA
38 answers

Hi everyone! I recently found out I was pregnant with our third child. This baby was completely planned, in fact, it took me longer to get pregnant this time that either child before. We are very excited. Not everyone knows that we are pregnant yet, but the people that do (my family) are making hurtful comments. My dad told me he was going to take a pocket knife to my husband to make sure we don't have anymore. (We don't plan on having any more anyways). The response of my family has managed to dampen my excitement. How have you dealt with similar situations? I also am curious, if when we find out the gender of this baby is another girl (we have 2 girls already), how do you convey that you are equally as excited? I am sure people are going to think that I am disappointed that I didn't get a boy, but I believe that I will be given the gender I am meant to raise. Some feedback and encouragement would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!!

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So What Happened?

I wanted to personally thank all of you for your stories and words of encouragement. I definitely agree that once this baby arrives, my dad will warm up to the new life. My dad really has the best of intentions, but he is definitely set in his ways. He was completely disappointed when he found out I was pregnant with our first child because HE felt that we should have been married for 5 years before children. (He was never able to give a reason WHY he felt that way). He loves her and enjoys spending time with the kids we have. Of course I wanted everyone to share in the excitement, but I just need to not be so dependent on other peoples' feelings of MY decisions. I know that there is an extra seat in my heart, and enough money in our wallet for this child, so is there anything else that really matters? I knew you all would come through with helpful words of wisdom and I thank each and every one of you!

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E.W.

answers from Seattle on

Well I'm sorry but I just think that's tacky. Since when is three kids a humongus family? I would just say, "Well, WE are thrilled!" And I think you already put the other thing perfectly: "We are confident that we've been given the gender we were meant to raise -- and we're thrilled!"

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V.G.

answers from Seattle on

Perhaps these people don't mean to be hurtful but there could be several reasons why they are not expressing the joyful reaction you were hoping for.

If these comments are being made by your parents or other people who are getting older, they may feel that having a lot of little ones around is exhausting and they may be worried they will be asked to babysit.

Maybe they are worried about you or your husband losing your jobs in the current economy and fearing that you won't be able to make ends meet with another child.

Or, they may be concerned about human overpopulation. Since you enjoy camping and the out of doors you can probably see how the increasing population can have a negative effect on the quality of life. Our highways are crowded, natural resources are becoming exhausted, open space is dwindling and other species have no place to go when our neighborhoods take over their habitat.

Making even a joking comment in return like "Dad, we thought we'd have 5 more so you could babysit them all" might be a way to open up the dialog so you can understand what concerns are behind the comments.

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K.M.

answers from Portland on

It can be heart-breaking when the people we love and trust are un-supportive and even hurtful to us. Having dealt with similar situations within my own family, I just tried to recognize the fact that sometimes people don't always express their opinions in a tactful way. Sometimes they even express ridiculous opinions about how " it better be a boy this time at least ". A child is a blessing no matter what sex, ability, color, shape, etc. I encourage you to stick with your gut, and surround yourself with positive people. Congratulations for the news of your expectant little one.

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J.C.

answers from Seattle on

Hi, J.--- aren't people foolish sometimes????? How petty to pick at either of you for a welcomed and desired pregnancy!!!!! ( One of my dearest freinds did the same when I was pregnant with my third --- and it was very hurtful) Just know that you are doing what's right- you had no voice in how many children THEY had - and they have no voice in how many YOU have---that's the way it goes.

Surround yourself with people who rejoice with you- and I suspect they'll come around---

Blessings
( there is no greater joy than a baby coming into a family that is delighted to receive 'em)

Old Mom - aka -==J.

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J.W.

answers from Seattle on

I know how you feel. We had a girl and a boy and were expecting our third child. I remember telling my parents, expecting the same level of joy and was sadly disappointed when they responded "Why?" This from my parents who had had 3 children. It took them about a month to get over it as I wasn't asking their permission. My in-laws were snowbirds so we never told them until the baby arrived. When cooler heads prevailed my Mom told me they were concerned over my age, the associated costs with a third child, balancing the whole work and kids as two was challenging and everyone was thriving so why tempt fate? When the baby arrived he was greeted with the same fanfare, love and adulation. I'm not going to tell you it didn't hurt, but don't focus on it. This baby is just as precious, just as awesome as the first two. Enjoy every moment of your pregnancy (there is nothing like that life within you) and the awe, wonder and joy that your three kids are going to bring you all your years!!! Congrats!!!

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B.B.

answers from Portland on

Congrats! I would start the conversation with, "We are EXCITED to annouce that we are pregnant again or that we are having a girl". If you start it with your feelings that might stop a few people from commenting. Of course there will always be those ignorant people who can't keep their mouths shut but hopefully sharing your feelings before giving the news will set the stage for how others should respond. Again, congrats on the new one!

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S.S.

answers from Portland on

I completely understand. Why do people feel the need to do this when we have more than they had or feel is the perfect number. It's our choice for crying out loud. I have 5. The first we took in last year as a teenager, she has truly blossomed since we got her in an environment that treats her with love and corrective discipline rather than control and humiliation. Our 4 biological children are 9,6,4 and 18mo. We got married young and had all our kids 2yr8mo apart. We have always said we wanted 4 kids but that didn't stop my family from saying things like,"you aren't going to have time for more"and"don't you know what causes that" and "oh well, we aren't surprised I mean after all you were trying for another one weren't you". All these things they were talking about and it's funny that they are the ones that were cheapening the 3rd and 4th babies. Not us! We were just as excited about the last as the first and we adore them all and take time each month to spend a special date with each one to make sure no one gets left in the dust. Our oldest and youngest are girls and the two in the middle are boys. My family can't seem to stop favoring the girls and pushing away the boys. Ironic isn't it how when you judge someone for a certain reason that same thing comes back to bite you in the butt. Maybe if they weren't so busy trying to educate me on proper parenting like only having 2.3 children they could appreciate the fact that all our kids are very loving selfless beautiful individual humans that will be an asset to society.

I say you and your husband should have as many as you agree on and can support and let the outsiders flap their gums. You and I are the ones that will have a choice when we get old and need a place to live. :)

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S.R.

answers from Richland on

Hi J., sorry that people are hurting you. Just remember that a baby is a precious gift for you not them. They are welcomed to share and for her sake hopefully they will. Just smile, think happy thoughts, and take care of yourself so your baby can grow in a healthy environment. I can't even count how many times my dad has said something so rude and insensitive. He still doesn't get it. S.

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M.P.

answers from Seattle on

Hi J.,

I am pregnant with our FOURTH daughter, so I know what you mean! "My gosh, how many are you going to HAVE???" or "Another girl? Your hubby must be soooo disappointed."

As if pregnancy didn't seem to invite enough negative comments (I'm looking at YOU thinks-I'm-having-twins guy!), #3 or #4 adds to the "fun".

Anyway, commiseration aside, here's what I tell people: Yes, we are VERY EXCITED about this pregnancy. We've ALWAYS wanted a big family. Or if you're in the mood for sarcasm, you can tell them you're just disappointed you started late so you won't be able to catch up to the "13 and counting" family.
As for all girls, I can honestly tell them that we are THRILLED and RELIEVED that #4 is a girl. After all, we know how to be parents of girls, we already have the clothes, and they can room together.

Congrats on girl #3!! I love having girls, and I have NO regrets. :D

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D.J.

answers from Seattle on

Hi J.;

I agree with Vicki G. Sometimes, the comments are made because of an inner fear. Maybe they are afraid of being asked to babysit or maybe they watch the kids during one of your shifts now and they struggle to keep up with them.

Maybe they've heard some stories from your line of work and they are concerned about your and your baby's health.

There could be the fear of finances on their part. If they are generous during celebrations they may be concerned with being able to maintain that gift-giving level and still not break the bank (yes, I had a friend whose parents were concerned about not being able to afford enough gifts - in the end everyone is much happier. Grandparents because the cost is down and mom and dad because they aren't swimming in the toy pool anymore).

The end comment that Vicki G made in regards to throwing a joke out to break the ice is a fantastic one. I was thinking the same thing right before I read her comment. A lot of times that can aleviate the burden of the comment with a few laughs and get them to bring up something that may be the underlying cause for their concern.

Now after all that: CONGRATULATIONS! Gender wise...who cares! It's your child and you're going to love that child just as much as the first two. I have five boys, I still get comments like "No girls! Are you going to try for one?" or "Don't you wish you had at least one girl?" To both of those I always reply "Nope, besides I wouldn't know what to do with a girl after all these boys. I don't know how to do anything that's not rough-and-tumble, messy, loud, and (at times) Ewwwww inducing." So if you have another little girl make sure you come up with a line for "Are you going to try for a boy?" Then you can tell them all the great things about girls.

p.s. I'm not being mean about the gender thing there, both genders have wonderful qualities, sometimes you have to point those out to the people who think it's so sad that you don't have any girls or boys. I really don't care, I have 5 healthy children.

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A.M.

answers from Portland on

*hugs*

I'm so sorry people are making such thoughtless, hurtful comments to you.

I've no advice for you, other than to tell people their comments are not nice, and to mind their own business.

Congratulations on your pregnancy.

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E.B.

answers from Portland on

Congratulations!

A mother's heart expands to treasure and love each and every precious angel she is given. One would think the same of grandparents, but maybe not. It is your family and it sounds like you and your husband have plenty of love to go around. What's up with the pocket knife comment? Was grandpa planning on putting them all through college himself? Tell them to think of all the money you'll be saving by having another girl, and not having to go out and buy a bunch of boy stuff. Think of how lucky your girls are that both of them get to experience being a big sister! Tell them its none of their business, you thought it was cause it is their family too, but if they are not going to be supportive, and they don't need to be kept informed. Tell them they are the best grandparents in the world! Tell them whatever you need to to maintain your sanity. I think you are wonderful for bringing another angel to earth. Enjoy it! You may be outnumbered, but the big girls can look after the little ones, at least sometimes. Have fun, have faith, and best wishes.

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V.R.

answers from Portland on

Hi J.,
I have 5, and I've had plent of impolite comments. Generally I choose to ignore it. I don't think people are really meaning to hurtful. My Dad's first comment on our first was, "oh no...oh". I've never forgotten, and sometimes I tease him about it. It really isn't others' business how many children you have, as long as you are loving them and doing you best to provide for them. And I don't mean you need to be wealthy. Some people keep having babies, but let or expect others to raise them! I believe each child is a gift from God and I wouln't turn of them away. I can be difficult in this two child, two car country we live in. But someone needs to break away from the trend!

Good luck to you, and just try to let the comments go. They are usually not meant to be hurtful. It's just ignorance, and difference in beliefs.

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K.M.

answers from Seattle on

Ummmm. Who cares? If this is what you want then be happy about it. Unless your family is supporting you, then it doesn't get to tell you what to do anymore. If you are not a "family in need", then have as many children as you can provide and care for.

When they say something, respond with something like, "My husband and I are so happy to welcome our 3rd child. We always knew that we wanted 3 children in our family!" Gush happily about your pregnancy and how excited your children are that they will have another sibling.

If they continue to make little comments, remind them that they have already shared their opinion and that they could stop sharing now. Enjoy this pregnancy and prepare (happily) for your newest addition! Congratulations to you and your family.

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W.C.

answers from Seattle on

When you tell them you are pregnant tell them you are so excited to have this new life coming into your life, and cannot wait to find out who it is--regardless of the sex. You have all these plans.... Your letter really conveys your excitement and if you stay with that you will do fine.

As to your family, I would choose the one who is lease hostile to you, and tell them how you hurt you feel about their response--especially your father's. Eventually they will come around.

Congratulations!

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R.M.

answers from Portland on

I am so sorry that people can be so inconsiderate, ignore them and enjoy this pregnancy... especially if it is your last baby.
As to the comments people make just tell them that your children will not be a burden to this earth or to them and that they complete your life not make it more difficult. Besides this third child could quite possibly be the one person that cures disease. I also have three and get the "you sure have your hands full" all the time, I'm not quite sure how they consider that my sweet baby girl tipped the hands full scale but whatever. Whether it is healthy or not I have a tendency to filter out the negative comments I receive in life:)

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I am VERY happy for you and I would be if it was your fifth or eleventh child:)

By the way how many siblings do you have? By the other way I am from a family of eight girls and two boys... doesn't really matter what the sex is, my dad sure didn't feel shortchanged.

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C.G.

answers from Seattle on

My favorite phrase is "stupid people annoy me" - the people making hurtful comments are just that, stupid. I have 4 kids, & get all sorts of looks & comments - my dad was the first to ask when we were expecting #3 - "you're done now, right?" - We adore our children & you should just look at yours to put the smile back on your face - there are always going to be people who make rude comments. Congrats on #3!!!! It is so much fun & i think it was easier haveing #3 than #2, cuz the first two can entertain eachother when you are tending to your new baby!

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K.J.

answers from Portland on

I am sorry...I hate that people think it's ok to comment on the reproductive choices of another. We have triplets (1boy and 2 girls) and everyone likes to comment on how nice it is to get it done in one shot. They look at me like I have a second head when I tell them we plan o try for one more in a year or so. I just tell them in a no if's and's or but's way that it is our call and it's not open for comments. I guess the only thing you can do is make it clear that you are very happy about this baby whatever it may be and that you don't care for any negative comments.

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M.L.

answers from Anchorage on

I'm sorry to hear that family is saying such hurtful things.I can't imagine what would make them say such things.My mom "nagged" me for years about when I was going to have a baby (hs sweetheart & I lost 2) and then when my ex and I were expecting after trying for 2 yrs she didn't seem excited or anything.She was just like "ok, now what?" type of attitude.I was hurt and even mad at her for some time because she was so careless with how she made us feel when she had supported us thru the whole 2 yrs we had trouble convieving.I hope that those who are saying hurtful things to u come around and realize that your baby is a precious gift.Good luck :) *hugs*

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C.H.

answers from Portland on

J.,

We cannot ever change other people, how they react to us or what they say to us so my advice to you would be to ignore what anyone else thinks or says about your third pregnancy. There's a quote out there but I don't know the person who said it that describes the attitude exactly you need to take on this, "What other people think of me is none of my business."

If you place importance on how others feel about this pregnancy you will surely be disappointed and if you allow it to affect you then you are giving your power away to people who's opinion of your having a third child doesn't matter anyhow. In my opinion there are really only two people who's opinions count in this situation...yours and your husbands. Having this child is your decision, it's your life and your child so if I were you I'd be as happy as I possibly could be regardless of who thinks/says what.

When I was pregnant with my first child my mother told me right up to when I was in labor that she didn't think I should be having a baby. Thank goodness I didn't allow her attitude to affect me otherwise having a child would've been a very negative experience for me.

Don't let the opinions of others guide you through life because if you do you'll never travel your own path for your own reasons.

Good luck to you.

Regards,
C.

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B.M.

answers from Seattle on

Hi J.,
First of all, CONGRAT's on your news! I just had our third child and I can tell you that it is an amazing experience and I'm so excited for you.
I had a very similar situation when I was expecting, and even now. My family threw, and still has, comments like this to us. It is very hurtful and it made me feel like I couldn't be as excited as I should've been or that I made a mistake bringing a third child into our family. My mom is the worst...which has distanced me from her lately. I'd almost rather not talk to her to avoid her comments. Her spin is mostly about finances since my husband is in school and I'm the one working fulltime, but she told me that I shouldn't have a baby shower too. Every one told me that the best thing to do is have an open, honest discussion with my family to let them know that their comments are totally inappropriate, but I still haven't been able to do that. If you can do better than me, I really think that will prevent you from having jaded relationships and more emotional torment in the future...some people really don't think about what they are saying and how hurtful it can be.
As for the gender of your baby, yes, you'll be blessed with the gender you are meant to raise. My aunt found out the sex of her third child but kept it a secret from everyone else, pretending that she couldn't find out, that way she could tell everyone that she'd be thrilled with either sex. She'd say a boy would be easiest since she had experience, and a girl would be a great challenge.
I just wish you all the best and that you have a wonderful pregnancy and perfect birth! Be delighted and enjoy every minute of this...and do better than me and tell people know how you feel.

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J.O.

answers from Portland on

Congratulations!!!I agree that most people need to get a life and think it's ok to comment on your personal choices. Also I'm so sad to hear that your Dad is that blind/unfeeling. I have only one beautiful little girl and don't plan to have others. I am certainly sick of hearing "When are you going to get her a sibling?" It sure makes me more aware of what I say to others. Good Luck and hang in there!!!

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K.I.

answers from Spokane on

J....
Yep, I hear that! I got the same thing! This is where it is cool to remember that it doesn't matter what they think...it is your life to lead.

Just wanted to stop by and say 3 is great! Congrats to you and yours!!!

I always wanted 3 and have loved every minute of it!

K.

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K.B.

answers from Anchorage on

CONGRATULATIONS!

We have FIVE girls!
My husband loves them all and wouldn't trade a single one of them for a boy! Like one of the other ladies said, they hunt, fish, camp, collect worms and other bugs for bait, watch NASCAR. He couldn't be happier! I on the other hand would love to have at least one girl! HAHA! We would probably try for one more if I wouldn't have had a nasty c-section with the twins.
My mother... now here's a good one! Each time I was pregnant, another HORRIBLE comment! First child, "have an abortion and never see Mike again." Second child, "you can't even afford the one you've got, why are you having another?" (We were perfectly capable financially.) Third child, "why are you putting me in a position to give less to the 2 grand kids I have already, that is just not fair to them." Forth pregnancy, "oh." That pregnancy ended in losing a set of twins, which she said nothing to even seem remotely like she cared how I was feeling. Fifth pregnancy she said NOTHING, not even when we told her she was going to be one of the coolest grandparents in town, she was a grandma of twins! They are 8 months old now and she really has nothing to do with any of my kids anymore.
Every pregnancy it was from every family member on both sides... "maybe it's a boy this time" and some added "so you can stop." For some reason every single person thinks everyone should have a boy, I'm not sure why the sex of a baby makes any difference, I LOVE having GIRLS! We have SO much fun! Mike's side of the family, before they would say congratulations would ask if I'm naming my baby boy with the middle name "Wayne" (their family name thing). It's my choice what I want to name my children, and honestly, that wasn't one of them! His mother even takes out baby pics of Mike to compare to see if they look like him, like I was cheating on him or something! I think she still thinks our 3rd one isn't his, she looks NOTHING like either of us! You would think after a 15 year marriage, that he's the only man I want! There were also comments that maybe we lucked out and hit the jackpot with 2 boys this time, or at least one out of the deal.

Anyways, I like to ramble... lol

Put your foot down! If they don't stop the comments, don't talk to them! Those comments stick with you... our 1st is 14, and I still remember clear as a bell. When my parents came for a visit to see the twins after they were born, she said hurtful things and had a horrible attitude. She called recently and told me they were coming up this summer. I told her NO. I can't handle the way she treats me and my dad and her attitude. It's not what I need while I'm raising 5 kids while my husband is deployed for another year! My phone calls, messenger , emails are limited to information only with her. It's just better that way. Do what you have to do! Those kiddos of yours need YOU happy! It's taken me years, but I'm finally there! I think! LOL

Sorry this is so long!

Again, Congratulations! My 3rd is the most animated out of the 5, and I couldn't imagine life without her! Rub that belly for me!

K.

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M.L.

answers from Seattle on

Ignore the critics! Maybe when you tell people, say that that you've been waiting, but are now extra excited for the arrival of your third child! It might convey that this WAS planned, and that you're just as excited as you were for the first two. As for the gender issue, people will probably ask you long before you might actually know. Just tell that that you don't care and are excited to have the baby on the way. You might even wait to find out until the baby arrives.

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M.W.

answers from Seattle on

First of all--Congrats! I think it's silly that people stress about other people's choice to have a child-- If they are able to provide for them and give them a loving home, more power to them!

I feel for you! My husband and I have always made a point about telling our families that we PLAN on having 3, we're expecting #2 right now... Thankfully, my parents would love us to have as many as possible! My husband's parents are supportive too--but his father (divorced), has expressed great disappointment that we will have two girls and has made rude comments like, "Oh well, at least there will be another W---- (our last name) for a little while" which is ridiculous because not every woman changes her last name if she marries! or "Well, maybe 3rd time's the charm" which is totally rude and disrespectful to our daughter who is two and adores her Grandpa C, and to our yet-to-be-born daughter who will be born to parents and a sister who are delighted, yet a grandfather who is experiencing gender disappointment. So, yes, I do feel pressure on us to have that third child now, and coming from his dad-- I know he really wants it to be a boy. Of course, happy and healthy--that's all that matters.

I also think 4 year olds and 3 year olds will make WONDERFUL big sisters regardless of boy/girl little sibling!! They will be so excited!

Also, perhaps your dad was trying to be funny--but that comment wasn't just insensitive, it was kind of sick...

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P.H.

answers from Seattle on

I would distance myself from anyone not supportive.
I would say" Oh what a horrible thing to say." and leave. Don't get caught up in their negetives...

People should engage their brain and thier hearts before speaking.

Some people LOVE family life...some people see it as a trap.Good for you congrats to you and your husband!!

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N.W.

answers from Eugene on

I understand how you feel. We have 5 girls about 19mos -2 years apart each. We went to the same thing. "Again" "not another one" "Don't you know about birth control" "what if it's another girl". Basically its going to happen. A lot of people just can't imagine themself in the same situation. Just let them know you wanted this and it was your choice. And if you get another girl be as happy as you are. Because you're going to love the baby regardless of gender. Your family will too regardless of their comments now. I know my family was still as thrilled after my fifth was born as they were when my first was born.

J.S.

answers from Seattle on

J. - I'm sorry I can't empathize with the family being down on you. In my family, as well as my husband's, it's pretty much expected that 3 is the least you'll have! 4 and 5 is the number all our 6 sisters and brothers have. So please don't feel anything but joy with your third on the way!!!

I have three girls myself, and I had a lot of comments about hoping our third was a boy (we didn't want to find out). My husband, of course, had even more comments from people about finally getting a son. I told people that I thought a boy would be an exciting adventure, but I know girls, I have all the clothes and supplies for girls, so if it's a girl I'll be very happy. (Besides, I came from a family of 4 girls!) My husband always tells people that his girls are all the boy he needs because they fish with him, help him work on the car, and are always quick with their "toilet" and "butt" jokes. (You can imagine how pleased I am with that!)

In short, children are a gift from the Lord, and once your little one arrives and Grandpa/auntie/cousin sees him or her, their criticisms will all be silenced.

Blessings to you!

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T.F.

answers from Eugene on

Honestly - I was one of those people that gave my friends a hard time with having 4 kiddos....but I am the oldest of 4 myself. I think that we live in a different world now and society has their mind set that we should only have one or two just to replace ourselves. I would like atleast two maybe three if I am lucky. Don't get me wrong - I fully supported my friends. Anyway - like I said - it's all about what is politically correct by our society. I say if you want 3 kiddos, by golly go for it. If you and your hubby are happy about your addition to the family - then that's all that matters. Your family should eventually get over it and should most likely welcome your new bundle of joy. Good luck and keep smiling. Hugs.

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L.T.

answers from Eugene on

Hi..we have had the same problems with our family members. My dad offered to buy my husband a vasectomy for Christmas!!! We just had our 4th in September, and we always knew we wanted 4. On the other hand, we have had only wonderful comments and support from our family in our church and our former church. That has helped. I never lost excitement about the baby, but I was anxious around my dad. Now, he is in love with our little one (as with all of them). I guess our family's reasoning is somewhat sweet, they want the best for us and for us to have enough to provide. They just don't understand our willingness to sacrifice some level of comfort in order to have a more wonderful gift, another person to love. I think you'll get more support once that baby is born, and I'm sorry you don't have it now. Our family has grown in love with each child, and our children have grown in selflessness and sweetness as our family expands. What could be more important or special than that?

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M.S.

answers from Portland on

I have a sister-in-law that accidentally got pregnant with her third, fourth, and fifth! Most of which was not really her fault entirely. Things like her doctor not being clear that nursing was not 100% birth control, not telling her that antibiotics cancel out birth control, and missing a pill. She was afraid to tell my family, and rightly so. They made mean comments and sarcastic comments. By the time she got to the fifth one, she refused to tell anyone until the end. You just have to be selective in who you talk to about it. Talk to people that are uplifting, supportive, and kind. Those that make mean comments ought to just be ignored or avoided. Make sure that you counter every negative conversation with an uplifting one with a friend.
I personally would make sarcastic comments like "if you don't like your grandkids, no one is forcing you to be with them", just to make them feel bad or understand that their comments are hurtful. That isn't the best option though. The best way to handle your dad would be to tell him how you feel and just keep telling him that he got to choose what he did in his life, and you and your husband get to decide to to run your life.

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P.C.

answers from Seattle on

it is SO hard to get such negative feedback from your family when you are so happy. You have your family now and just know, as soon as your beautiful little bundle is sweetly sleeping in your parents arms, you know they will be thanking you for bringing another beautiful child in the world. Congratulations!

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J.B.

answers from Seattle on

I haven't got any experience with this. I'm surrounded by people who believe that children are a gift from the Lord. In fact, my husband and I want four or five children ourselves. So be comforted that there are more of us out here, and you are very right to be excited.

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J.L.

answers from Corvallis on

Have as many kids as you want and tell everybody else its none of their business. I agree the comments are hurtful and from family a slap in the face (I experienced this also , but with my first child and inlaws made a comment). In my experience its like the family member is being selfish and not thinking of you and what you want. Tell them this is what you want and that they dont need to like it.
The gender, it really doesnt matter. Others really need to think before they speak. ISnt it more that the baby is healthy and strong that is important? Not if it is a boy or girl(ok this is more out of curiousity during pregnancy) or lack of one sex in a family?? I love love all my kids and their gender being any different wouldnt change the way I feel about them.
You should just tell others to just mind their own business and accept that you are loving this new bundle!!
Congrats to your third child!!!

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L.R.

answers from Portland on

I would personally treat most of the comments very lightly. Here are some ideas:

* Well, you know the average number of children per American family is 2.5. We're trying to help the average.

* Oh, I'm so excited about this one. We're not planning on having any more, so I'm really going to enjoy this pregnancy.

* (Once you are sure it's only one) Hey, at least it's not twins!

Seriously, I wish people would get a life! Whoever decreed that families should have only 2 kids? I'm trying to head off such comments now. My family knows that my husband and I both want to have more kids. Of course, with #2 being less than 3 months, it won't be for a bit yet, but still, I want more. I can't imagine only having 2! When people say, "Well, isn't that nice! You've got a boy and a girl!" I say, "Yes, it's a good start. Now I'll have clothes for whatever the next one happens to be." Or something like that.

I think your dad was VERY out of place, and you should have told him so. If he'd offered to pay for a vasectomy I think I would have said thanks, but we're done anyhow. But if MY dad said something like that about MY husband, I would have really been mad, and he would have known it!

Anyhow, you and your husband wanted this baby. You planned for it. You worked for it. It took time, but you got it. Forget what everyone else says and enjoy your pregnancy and baby!

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A.M.

answers from Portland on

Hmmm...you got me. I'm not sure I understand why they wouldn't be happy. You didn't say anything about being laid off or that you are in fact, 55 years old or your children are coming out with horns on them or that your husband keeps them up in the attic because he's an avid fan of VC Andrews....so I guess all you can say is, "Thank you so much for being happy for us," in a pointed matter and put it out of your head. Just because they couldn't imagine handling three children doesn't mean they know what you're capable of. Congratulations by the way!

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S.W.

answers from Bellingham on

Welcome to the club of mothers with three children. I have three boys and never found out what the sex of the baby was when I was pregnant. Yes, I did get a lot of negative comments about having three children and sometimes still do. I also got a lot of negative comments about not finding out the sex of the baby. It does not matter what other people think, only what you and your husband think/want. My husband and I are very happy of having three children and actually have heard from some friends who have two that sometimes they wish they had a third. Don't worry about what people say. People say anything they want these days.
Hope your pregnancy goes well and you have a healthy baby girl or boy.

S.

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