My sister-Sarah- and her boyfriend had been dating for two years until two months ago when she got pregnant. At first, the fiancé seemed excited, but he became distant, withdrawn, and elusive after some time.
Are you like Sarah and thinking, “I’m pregnant and the father is ignoring me?” Worry not. You’re not alone. It’s frustrating when the other parent ignores you. However, don’t let it shift focus from your munchkin.
Why does your partner ignore you while pregnant? What can you do?
Read on to discover.
I’m Pregnant, And My Boyfriend Is Ignoring Me. Why?
A fiancé, boyfriend, or partner may ignore their pregnant girlfriend for several reasons, including relationship conflicts, fear of responsibility, and lack of interest. Additionally, your boyfriend may be busy, confused/panicky, or he could be going through rough, stressful issues in his personal life.
It’s every mother’s dream to have their baby’s dad as part of the pregnancy and parenting journey. Having someone to accompany you to medical appointments and offer financial/emotional support feels good. When the unexpected happens, and you’re left alone, it can be disappointing, especially for first-time parents.
Unfortunately, most men aren’t emotional about expecting a baby like women. To them, a new being means additional strain on their finances, emotions, and general life. Your boyfriend could be in denial. However, brace yourself to raise your bundle of joy alone or with minimal support from him.
Single parenthood isn’t easy but psychologically rewarding in the long run. Try reaching your boyfriend to find out his reasons and stand about your unborn baby. Since some men cut communication to the extent of blocking you, use a friend to find him physically. If nothing bears fruit, seek legal advice about child support and get ready to raise your little one lovingly.
Why Am I Being Ignored By The Father While Pregnant?
Often, men get confused upon discovering their partners are unexpectedly pregnant. It gets worse for unmarried men as they are usually not sure how to handle the situation from now on. They also feel as if the timing may be wrong.
The Institute For Family Studies found out that most working class men received the news about the unplanned pregnancy with mixed feelings of fright and excitement.
Let’s explore other reasons that could make your boyfriend ignore you while pregnant:
1. Relationship Problems
How have you been relating lately? If you had recent fights and disagreements, the avoidance could be his way of hitting back.
2. He’s Not Ready For Fatherhood
While there’s no ideal set-up for one to become a father, some men prefer moving in with their partners before the baby comes. News of the unborn baby may make them feel they need more time to plan finances and emotions. In this confusion and panic, he’s likely to withdraw and ignore you.
3. Fear of Responsibility
The thought of having an extra mouth to feed, medical bills, sacrifice, and other baby’s requirements may seem scary for some men.
4. Relationship Status
Were you in a love-filled, committed relationship with plans? If it was a shaky engagement, your boyfriend was having some fun and didn’t want anything to do with you anymore.
5. He’s Busy and Disinterested
Your partner could be too busy with his personal stuff to spare time for you. Ignoring you is a show of disinterest.
What To Do When Your Baby Daddy Ignores You While Pregnant
After trying to negotiate or find a solution without success, it’s time to accept single parenting. Some men need time to accept the responsibility, while others don’t want it.
The following are helpful tips on how to raise kids alone:
1. Time management
With additional parenting responsibilities, you’ll need to learn the skill of juggling. Create time for the baby, work, home, and personal issues to avoid getting overwhelmed.
2. Invest in a social support system
Playing the role of mother and father isn’t a joke. Having a circle of trusted friends and relatives around you helps with medical appointments and during/after delivery.
3. Plan
Planning for baby shopping, prenatal appointments, home chores, work, and finances gives you peace of mind. It helps you save and avoid last-minute panic.
4. Join a psychosocial support group
Such forums help you learn from other women in a similar situation.
According to the Newport Academy, a support group is where you share ideas,find hope/humor, connect and get real-life inspiration from other parents.
Search for a local group near your residence or join one of the numerous single-parenting online forums.
5. Learn the law and seek legal assistance
Take time to know children’s legal protection laws in your country. Are there pregnancy protection policies? What are your child’s rights?
Find out if your state/country supports expectant single parents financially too. Further, you may get assistance from a good lawyer on filing for child support. Any form of aid from your boyfriend comes in handy at this time.
6. Create personal time for self-love and self-care
With many issues about the coming baby and parenting on your mind, it’s easy to neglect yourself. Joining yoga classes, taking a walk in the park, or getting a sensual massage are some ways to unwind.
You can also catch up with friends or watch your favorite movie to stay happy. Remember, a self-loving woman grows contented children. You’re doing a great job that deserves proper pampering.
Wrapping Up
Many women with unplanned pregnancies commonly complain, “I’m pregnant, and my boyfriend is ignoring me.”
He could be avoiding you due to fear of responsibility, disinterest, lack of preparedness, personal stress, and relationship conflicts.
Some lovers may resolve issues, while for others, it’s the start of the single-parenthood journey.
Proper time management, pre-planning, creating a support system, seeking legal advice, and self-care are tips to help you enjoy raising kids alone.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to a professional counselor/ therapist.
More to Read
- Is My Baby Hungry When I’m Hungry During Pregnancy?
- It Feels Like Baby Is Shaking Inside Me! Is That Normal?
- Why Is My Pregnant Belly Soft When I Lay Down – What You Should Know
- Why Does My Pregnant Belly Look Smaller Some Days?
- Can You Crack Your Back While Pregnant – Is It Safe?
- Pregnant and Scared of Life Changing – Guide to Overcome