ArcaMax

I suggest that you arm yourself with a no-nonsense but polite answer: "I can tell you're curious about this, but I don't want to discuss it. Thank you for understanding."

You should also arm yourself with accurate medical information, research your options (such as IVF, adoption, or surrogacy), and take a very deep breath and simply try to be patient with yourself and others.

You and your husband should sit down with a therapist. You may need more professional coaching to navigate your personal and family relationships.

Dear Amy: I'm a 50-year-old woman, living in Canada. I've been with my common-law partner for over 11 years, now. He is a nice guy, but he never shows his real feelings toward me.

For over 11 years he has always told me that he could leave me easily, and at any moment. At first I thought he was just joking but NO -- he is really serious.

It doesn't seem to bother him in the slightest -- talking to me this way.

Amy, I don't want to waste any more of my time with him, knowing that he would leave me anyway. I don't mind being alone (but happy), rather than confused and sad all the time.

I need a peace of mind. What is your advice?

Spent

Dear Spent: If you decided to leave this relationship and live alone, you might not actually be happy all the time -- but at least you would be secure in the knowledge that you were in control of your own relationship status. That knowledge and security can do wonders for your self-esteem.

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