Has anyone been a single parent from the start?

[HL123]

I hope this is the right section to post in.
I'm expecting my first baby next year, I'm still in the first trimester.
This pregnancy wasn't planned, but the baby will be extremely loved. I'm not with the father, and he isn't aware I'm pregnant yet - I actually tried to call him this evening to speak however he didn't answer my call.
He may suprise me but I'm 99% sure he won't want to be involved whatsoever, which is upsetting but I appreciate it's his choice.
I am however anxious about being a single mother - I know of many but only people who's relationships have failed after their child was born.
Has anyone reading brought up their child alone from the start, and how have you found the experience? Thanks in advance x

I have. I won’t lie @HL123 it’s hard, it’s tiring and you get no time for yourself but it’s worth it. I wouldn’t change what me and my DS have, our bond is so strong.

From 6 weeks.
My daughter is now 18 and I've raised her completely on my own.

Yes and no. We were in a relationship but we never moved in together. However I did all the parenting and still do. Its hard and I can only dream of free time that a lot of single parents enjoy but on the other hand I haven't had half the problems co parenting that those who have split later on have. There's a lot to be said for that.

It's difficult but doable. The only quality alone time I have is on my lunch break at work, and sometimes I take annual leave just to be able to do things like clean the house properly or read a book. DS (18 months) still doesn't call me mum despite regularly using over 100 words; the HV's best guess is he hasn't heard anyone call me it regularly so he knows who I am but to him I don't really have a name.

There's also no one to share the burden of decision making with, which I think is the thing most people forget about.

On the positive side he's a very happy and thriving boy who isn't being passed between houses with no real home. And as someone else mentioned I don't have the stress of trying to navigate co-parenting. His dad gets in contact every couple of weeks to ask if he's sleeping through yet but that's all.

Hi, HL123,
It's definitely doable! You sound like yo'vemade yourdecision for yourself, eyes open & no illusions or hopes to be dashed. That helps, you wont need to waste any energy trying to get him to pull his weight. Yes, there will be times when you wish there was somebody to help out, but you've got time to prepare for the arrival and line up your village. Be proud and your child will know they are loved for themselves, not just because they 'happened' to you. Best of luck!

and I forgot to add, I did it intentionally, my DS is now grown up & independent, living with girlfriend from schooldays, and I finally have time & energy for a partner, so now there's 4 of us round the table for Sunday lunch!