A selfless mother-in-law poured everything into nursing her son’s wife through a brutal pregnancy illness marked by relentless nausea and vomiting, only to see her own son pull away from all responsibility, leaving her carrying the full weight alone.
The devoted grandmother-to-be took the suffering young woman into her home, handling endless doctor visits, nighttime vigils against falls, and constant comfort during anxiety spikes, while her son limited visits to weekends and fought against more help. Torn by loyalty to both, she finally contacted the wife’s overseas parents to reveal the hidden severity.
A mother-in-law stepped up to care for her pregnant daughter-in-law amid her son’s limited involvement.
Studies show that hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) affects about 0.3%-3.6% of pregnancies globally, turning what should be a joyful time into a grueling ordeal with relentless nausea, vomiting, and potential dehydration.
In this case, the mother-in-law became the primary caregiver, handling everything from doctor visits to nighttime watch, while her son prioritized his work and sleep, visiting only weekends and resisting more involvement.
From one perspective, the son might be overwhelmed. New parenthood looming, disrupted routines, and the stress of a partner’s illness can make anyone retreat. Yet, minimizing the severity to his in-laws and refusing their help raises eyebrows about deeper avoidance or lack of empathy.
The Redditor’s decision to inform the daughter-in-law’s parents brought needed support but ignited family friction, highlighting clashing views on responsibility.
This story shines a light on broader family dynamics during pregnancy, where support networks are crucial. Paternal involvement has been linked to better maternal and infant outcomes, including reduced risks of certain complications.
When partners step back, it often falls to extended family, straining relationships and raising questions about long-term commitment, like how he’ll handle newborn demands.
Certified midwife Lisa Vagi notes, “When fathers are actively involved during and after pregnancy, it can significantly improve the child’s wellbeing.”
This rings true here: emotional backing from a spouse can ease the burden, while absence amplifies isolation and anxiety for the pregnant person.
Neutral advice? Open family talks are key to express needs without blame. The son could start small, like daily calls or shared care planning. For everyone, prioritizing the pregnant woman’s well-being, including mental health checks, prevents escalation.
Here’s what people had to say to OP:
Some people strongly criticize the son as selfish, irresponsible, and a bad husband who is abandoning his pregnant wife.
Some people believe the OP is NTA and should stop enabling the son’s avoidance of his responsibilities.
Others express concern about the son’s behavior and urge involving the DIL’s family or questioning his commitment.
This Redditor’s choice to loop in her daughter-in-law’s parents ensured vital help arrived, easing the immediate load while forcing a family reckoning. It underscores that caregiving can’t fall on one person forever, especially with a baby on the way.
Do you think her actions were spot-on for protecting her daughter-in-law, or did they cross a line into family drama? How would you balance supporting everyone without burning out? Share your thoughts below, we’re all ears!
