Harriette Cole: My husband wants another kid, but for my own well-being I must say no

"From severe morning sickness to complications that required hospitalization, the experience left me exhausted and anxious about the possibility of going through it again. Because of this, I've decided that I don't want to have another biological child. My husband, however, really wants another kid, and he keeps bringing up the idea of trying for a second. I understand his desire to expand our family, and I love him deeply, but I can't ignore the fear and trauma I still feel from my first pregnancy."

"Your husband may not fully get the magnitude of what happened to you in your first pregnancy, and he is therefore frustrated by your reluctance to do it again. Talk to your doctor to learn about the risks before you so that you can get an objective opinion about a future pregnancy. Continue with your gut check about what you believe you can handle."

One partner experienced a severe first pregnancy with hospitalization, ongoing fear, and trauma, and refuses another biological child. The husband desires another child and raises the idea repeatedly, creating tension. Adoption was proposed but seems financially prohibitive. The adviser recommends obtaining objective medical advice about future pregnancy risks and honoring personal readiness. Alternatives such as foster-to-adopt are suggested to expand the family without health risk. The guidance emphasizes continued communication, making a joint decision, standing firm on personal boundaries, and working together to move forward as a united couple.

Read at www.mercurynews.com