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Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you need help urgently or expert advice, please see our domestic violence webguide and/or relationships webguide. Many Mumsnetters experiencing domestic abuse have found this thread helpful: Listen up, everybody

Is infertility keeping me at bay?

4 replies

MrsParaphrase · 07/05/2012 22:35

My only sibling is 7 yrs younger than me; his wife is twelve yrs younger. I've tended to be the one who initiates contact, but over the last yr there has been v little contact. They did come for Xmas and my SIL was subdued for the 4 days. We pretty much did everything for them. TBH they only came because our mum didn't want to host Xmas, as she likes to come to us. So I of course suggested we had everyone. DH always invites parents too. We worked our socks off with no thanks.

He doesn't pick up if I call or respond to texts. (I contact about once a month). He is busy with a newish small business. I have 3 dc under 7. He has seen my 1 yr old once (aged 8months at xmas). They don't ask about the dcs any more. But they previously visited dc1 and 2 even in the maternity ward. And seemed to enjoy being the favourite uncle and auntie. I've just had a polite refusal of my suggested overnight visit. With a v reasonable excuse. I totally understand. But I feel confused and hurt by them ignoring my alternative suggestion that we meet for coffee in their local town one Sat, on our way passed. I don't know what I've done. He wouldnt tell me anyway. I've wondered whether their difficulties trying for a family might be part of this, as it's coincided with their withdrawal from us. Do you think this is likely?

I've wondered whether I should just leave them be. But our father lost touch with his sister at a similar age to us, and never found her again. I seem to always be expected to offer hospitality and attention on their terms - and I guess I'm frustrated and annoyed. Any advice?

OP posts:
izzyizin · 07/05/2012 22:46

I think it's very likely. As for what you can do about it, not a lot except continue to invite them to family events/celebrations and don't take it personally if they decline.

Oh, and don't be tempted to pry ask whether they have a problem with you or anything else. My guess is they'll tell you in their own good time.

CogitoErgoSometimes · 08/05/2012 10:00

I prefer the direct approach with close relatives. 'Are you avoiding me?'.... Better than making assumptions or worrying over nothing.

Bumdrop · 08/05/2012 10:32

yes. I've been that person struggling with infertility, keeping people; friends and family at arms length
infertility totally twists your head.
i didnt wish it on anyone, its not envy.
its being around people with kids being a very stark reminder of what you are desperate for, its easier to keep away.
when I was in my very negative mindset about it all, people with kids could only be one of two things to me - smug or ungrateful, totally inaccurate of course, but just wanted to give u a taster of what went through my mind.
if anyone had challenged me - is it because you cant have kids ?
i would have been very defensive, it all being too painful to be open about, and i would have run a mile.
If you think its the infertility getting in th eway of the relationship, give them space and time, they will be hurting,
if they are unable to resolve their infertility, it will always hurt, but probably feel less raw, as time goes on.

MrsParaphrase · 08/05/2012 19:33

Thanks Bumdrop I really appreciate you sharing your experience and perspective.

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