I feel so alone

Vent/Rant - Advice Wanted/Ambivalent

My only is 2.5 and I went to the OB yesterday to discuss long term birth control options. I always thought id want multiple kids until I had mine. My child is so perfect, smart, fun, and easy compared to other toddlers. But postpartum was HARD. The further I get away from it, I dont forget the hard stuff. It just becomes clearer how depressed, angry, sleep deprived, and under supported I was. My partner and I are one and done for many reasons including the postpartum period, Financials, health, etc. However, we are both open to that changing if we feel differently in a few years, though I truly dont see that happening.

That said, my OB appointment was emotional for me. Im turning 35 next month and we discussed how fertility will change over the next 5 years. I cried in her office as we were talking about long term birth control and being done. I think I am just mourning the plan I thought I wanted, the life I had pictured, for the life that actually fits best.

I dont feel like I have any friends who I can talk to about this experience and I am feeling so lonely. While only one has told me blatantly ill regret having one, hell be selfish, hell be lonely, etc. I know my other friends are silently judging our decision. When its come up in the past I get listening ears but no words of support, so ive just stopped talking about it with them. I have one friend who is child free and has become my only supporter in this choice but I dont feel can fully empathize and I just wish any of my parent friends supported me. My mom keeps saying I will change my mind, and my aunts have even called me out of the blue to tell me why siblings are so important.

Anyway, I feel like I am rambling now. I just need to vent I suppose. This community has helped me feel more confident in my choice and I appreciate you all.

Any words of advice or support are appreciated. How have you dealt with close minded friends? How do you mourn a life you pictured for a life that is different even if you know its the right choice?

Posted Jul 11, 2026, 9:00 PM UTC

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