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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

AIBU to want a relationship but feel it is impossible to tolerate a man? Anyone else?

279 replies

Yrepw · 07/08/2026 22:46

I truly dislike them. Of course there’s one or two I hold in high esteem but even they are entitled in a way that most women are not.

I used to love the idea of marriage and even being a stay at home parent, the idea of being a team with a man and building a relationship. I’m now in my forties and quite literally every man I have been involved with has caused me some pain in some way. Am I perfect? Absolutely not. But truly, the way I have been treated by men even at the best of times has often been filled with stress, being patronised, being let down. I know people will read this and think ‘well choose a better man’ but honestly these men were some of the ‘good ones.’

I would love to have a marriage but can’t face a man in my life. Sadly I’m not a lesbian. Has anyone else reached this point?!

OP posts:
AcrossthePond55 · 11/08/2026 15:34

I was suddenly reminded this morning of a feminist quote from the '70. So in case no one has included it in a post, here it is (after a few brief moments to get past the 'censors'

AIBU to want a relationship but feel it is impossible to tolerate a man? Anyone else?
BethRider · 13/08/2026 21:48

Yrepw · 07/08/2026 22:46

I truly dislike them. Of course there’s one or two I hold in high esteem but even they are entitled in a way that most women are not.

I used to love the idea of marriage and even being a stay at home parent, the idea of being a team with a man and building a relationship. I’m now in my forties and quite literally every man I have been involved with has caused me some pain in some way. Am I perfect? Absolutely not. But truly, the way I have been treated by men even at the best of times has often been filled with stress, being patronised, being let down. I know people will read this and think ‘well choose a better man’ but honestly these men were some of the ‘good ones.’

I would love to have a marriage but can’t face a man in my life. Sadly I’m not a lesbian. Has anyone else reached this point?!

Sounds like you need to let go of the ideals… your outlook has changed.. just relax and enjoy your life and if someone comes along you like and it develops then great.. if not… it’s not the end of the world… freedom, independence.. no one leaving the toilet seat up…

BewareTheGurus · 16/08/2026 00:01

BethRider · 13/08/2026 21:48

Sounds like you need to let go of the ideals… your outlook has changed.. just relax and enjoy your life and if someone comes along you like and it develops then great.. if not… it’s not the end of the world… freedom, independence.. no one leaving the toilet seat up…

Sound advice @BethRider. If it's ok with you I'll pick that up too. Thank you!

Bryonyberries · 16/08/2026 07:53

I’ve been single since my ex went off with another woman 14 years ago and spent that time alone raising the children. I didn’t want to get involved in a complicated step father/ blended family situation.

I have always been envious of couples who seem to be perfect for each other and wish I could have met someone like that.

However, I’m not sure I’d find it easy to share a life with someone now and reading some of the tales on here I’m probably better off alone!

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