The birth of a child is a monumental occasion for any couple, but Sarah felt crushed when her husband decided to spend the day with his son instead of being present for their baby’s arrival. This choice ignited a troubling chain of events, leaving her feeling lost and uncertain about the future. Now, she is reaching out for advice on how to navigate the obstacles ahead.

Here is Sarah’s letter:

Thank you for opening up about your experience, Sarah! We’ve put together some tips that may assist you in navigating this challenging situation.

Share your feelings with your husband.

Take some time to sit down with him and express how profoundly hurt you felt when he chose to prioritize his son’s football game over the birth of your daughter. Let him know that his absence during such a monumental moment felt like a betrayal. He might not fully grasp the emotional impact of his decision on you. Aim to help him understand why his actions have led you to question the future of your relationship.

Assess his commitment to both families.

His ex implied that his “first family” will always matter more, but you need to determine if that’s truly how your husband feels. Ask him directly if he shares her view. If he does, this will be a major issue going forward, as it suggests he might continue to neglect his role in your new family.

Knowing where he stands will help you make an informed decision about whether the marriage can work.

Set clear boundaries with his ex.

His ex’s remarks were not only hurtful but also deeply inappropriate. Share with your husband how disrespectful it felt when she diminished your child’s significance.

You may also consider addressing his ex directly, making it clear that while she is entitled to her opinions, she has no right to undermine your family. Establish firm boundaries to prevent her from interfering in your marriage.

Think about seeking counseling before making a final decision.

Before deciding on divorce, consider attending couples counseling to explore the underlying reasons for his behavior. A professional can facilitate discussions and help determine whether his reaction was an isolated incident or a sign of deeper issues. If his attitude remains unchanged or he shows no willingness to improve, you’ll gain a clearer insight into whether divorce is the appropriate step.

Childbirth is an incredibly significant journey, filled with excitement and unexpected turns. For another reader, her labor took an unforeseen twist, further complicated by disruptions from her mother-in-law, derailing her meticulously crafted plans.