Parents Who Regret Having Children Shared Their Anonymous Confessions, And Wow

"I had two kids, 7 and 4. Life was good. I enjoyed having a young family. My wife decided maybe it was time for three. I suggested maybe two was a good number. But she felt ready for three. Friends said, 'Actually, the jump from two to three really isn't that big, you barely notice it.' F*cking bullsh*t. I hate having three kids. It was 12 years ago now, and I still hate having three kids. We had a nice family car. Had to sell it and buy a bigger, more expensive car to fit three. I want to buy a house. Have to buy a bigger house to fit everyone. Family pass for an event? Includes two adults, two kids. Mostly, I just don't like having the third body around. The eldest has moved out and is living his own life and pursuing his career. Second is 16, high school, doesn't need attention or help with a lot. The youngest... Ugh, why do I still have to deal with children when I get home each evening? It's so goddamn draining. Don't get me wrong, I love him, will care for him, and protect him. I just don't like having three kids. I never wanted three kids. At least once a fortnight, I find myself quietly angry/annoyed that I've three kids, and I've been doing that for 12 years now, and it's so. F*cking. Draining."

"I am really not proud to share this, but I went through a period of bad drug addiction resulting from mental illness and an abusive relationship (with the dad), so I actually had a period of time where I didn't want my children. Not that I didn't want them to exist; I do and always have loved them. However, I didn't want them with me, basically because I knew I was incapable of taking care of any of us, so I was constantly overwhelmed, exhausted, and just wanted everything to"

Unwanted parenthood can produce long-term resentment alongside genuine care. Practical burdens such as larger cars, housing, and event limitations increase financial and logistical strain. Persistent anger and quiet frustration can last years, even when love and protective instincts remain. Mental illness, abuse, and addiction can create periods when a parent feels incapable of caregiving and prefers separation for safety or stability. Feelings range from protective love to exhaustion, shame, and a desire for relief. These experiences produce complicated emotional mixtures rather than simple rejection or acceptance.

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