For a woman in her mid-thirties, the discovery of an unplanned pregnancy weeks after a painful breakup has sparked a profound personal crisis, compounded by accusations of deliberate entrapment from her former partner.
A Dream Relationship Turns Sour
The reader, who shared her story with Metro's sex columnist Laura Collins, met a man online who initially seemed perfect. He was handsome, funny, and shared her interests. However, the facade eventually crumbled, revealing a person she describes as selfish, lazy, and nasty. The relationship ended for good when she discovered he was cheating.
Just weeks after the split, she found out she was eight weeks pregnant. Upon informing the father, he reacted with rage, accusing her of trying to 'baby-trap' him – a claim she vehemently denies. He has insisted she have a termination.
The Heart-Wrenching Dilemma
Now, the woman faces an agonising decision. On one hand, she has always wanted a family and fears this may be her final opportunity for motherhood. On the other, she is acutely aware that proceeding with the pregnancy would mean co-parenting for life with a man she no longer respects or trusts.
"I feel this might be my last chance of motherhood," she confessed, highlighting the pressure many women feel regarding their biological clocks, especially after struggling to find a suitable partner.
Expert Counsel on a Tough Choice
In her advice, published on January 17, 2026, counsellor Laura Collins refused to sympathise with the ex-partner, stating the pregnancy was "as much his doing as it is yours." She emphasised that the legal responsibility for child maintenance would fall on him, regardless of his wishes.
However, Collins urged the reader to make a clear-eyed decision. She cautioned against continuing the pregnancy solely out of fear it's a 'last chance.' Instead, the choice should be based on a genuine desire for the child and a realistic assessment of life as a single parent, including financial and social sacrifices and the support network available from family and friends.
The columnist also noted the possibility that the ex might later seek Parental Responsibility through the courts, a scenario for which she offered further support.
Collins directed readers to resources for making an informed choice, including the charity Brook's 'Making A Decision About Pregnancy' guide. She also listed counselling services available through providers like MSI Reproductive Choices and BPAS, as well as via the NHS.
