Dealing with Fertility Struggles: My Dilemma About Skipping Friends Baby Shower

"Struggling with infertility, I'm torn about attending my friend's baby shower - AITA for wanting to skip it? Reddit weighs in on this delicate dilemma."

Davy

Published in Interesting
August 9, 2025

Dealing with Fertility Struggles: My Dilemma About Skipping Friends Baby Shower

Are you the antagonist for not feeling up to attending your friend's baby shower? Picture this: you're a 28-year-old individual who has been grappling with fertility issues for over a year now, while your 27-year-old friend, Sarah, is expecting her first child.

The bond between you and Sarah dates back to your college days, and her pregnancy news undoubtedly brings a mix of emotions your way. Navigating the world of fertility appointments, treatments, and setbacks has taken a toll on your mental and physical well-being.

Sarah, excited about her impending motherhood, has extended an invitation to her baby shower. The dilemma arises when you find yourself torn between supporting Sarah and safeguarding your emotional health.

The internal conflict you're facing has led you to seek outside perspective on whether you are in the wrong for considering skipping the baby shower. The Reddit community has weighed in with a range of responses, highlighting the importance of prioritizing your well-being while also acknowledging the significance of supporting a friend during moments of joy.

The comments reflect a spectrum of opinions, from advocating for self-care and setting boundaries to emphasizing the value of open communication with Sarah about your struggles. The consensus seems to be that while it's essential to support your friend, it's equally crucial to tend to your emotional needs.

What's your take on this delicate situation?

Original Post

So I'm (28F) and my friend (27F), let's call her Sarah, is pregnant with her first child. Sarah and I have been close friends since college, and I'm genuinely happy for her.

Quick context: I've been trying to conceive for over a year now without success, which has been emotionally taxing for me. I've had multiple fertility appointments, treatments, and setbacks along the way, each taking a toll on my mental and physical well-being.

Recently, Sarah invited me to her baby shower. She's excited about this milestone and has been sharing every detail of her pregnancy journey with me.

However, the thought of attending the baby shower fills me with a mix of emotions – happiness for her and a tinge of sadness for myself. I know that I should be there to support her, but the idea of celebrating a joyous occasion while struggling with my fertility issues feels overwhelming.

It brings up feelings of inadequacy and jealousy that I can't seem to shake. I've been avoiding baby-related events and gatherings to protect my mental health, and I feel guilty for considering skipping Sarah's baby shower.

So, Reddit, given the circumstances, AITA for not wanting to attend my friend's baby shower? I can't shake off this internal conflict, and I need outside perspective to navigate this delicate situation.