AIO for my parents taking back babyshower gift after my baby was stillborn
I (25F) was pregnant and had my baby shower in the 7th month. My parents gifted me 3 gram of gold jewellery. I questioned why they spent so much on gold, and they said not to worry — and they would take it back later and convert that to something else for the baby after birth. This was a tradition for my sisters inlaws and they gave for my sisters baby shower. And they gave me to make me not left out even though I didn't ask for it .
After delivery, my baby was stillborn. Everyone was going through a very difficult time. I stayed at my parents’ house, and all the baby shower gifts were with my mom.
A month later, I moved back with my husband but forgot to take the bangles. Later, my mom returned them, but excluding the gift they had given me. When I asked about that, my mom gave unclear and indirect answers even after I asked multiple times.
Then she finally told something like, since they initially planned to take it anyway to give back after baby was born, she held to it. I was furious and asked her, if she took it because my baby is no more. My mom denied it and said that the gift was mine and I could take it if I wanted. I got angry and clarified that it was not about money or jewelry, and that I never asked for it in the first place — they chose to give it.
They then said they only have it because they would give it back anyway when the time comes, refering to the next baby. This upset me further, and I questioned how they could assume I would have another baby and bring this up in just 2 months post delivery. I told them I was not going to have another baby, and told them they could have it and do whatever they want with it as it is "theirs".
For me, this was not about money. This was about how they took back a gift that was given, just because my child is no more.
My parents have already been giving me a hard time throughout this situtation and it feels like I've finally had enough. I am really hurt by what has happened and don't know what to do. I have wanted to have a good relationship with my parents, even though they behave in a narcissistic way. Now, I don't know anymore. Am I over reacting?
Posted Apr 29, 2026, 6:58 AM UTC