DearBunmi,

My husband is an only child and the apple of his mum’s eyes. When we met, his mum was still doing all his washing and bringing over his meals after work every day! I soon put a stop to all that and tried to establish boundaries. I thought we were getting somewhere, but since I got pregnant, she’s gone over-drive. It’s her first grandchild and she’s even hinting on being there at the birth, although I’ve told her that wouldn’t be necessary. I should be excited about our first child, but she’s making me nervous.

Mandy, by e-mail.

Dear Mandy,

Your husband has to support you here and needs to tell his mum to back off. After dancing to her tune all his life, this might be a bit daunting. A bit of talk is needed and you need to let your mother-in-law know how things are going to be from now on, especially after you’ve had your baby. Stick to your rules and don’t back down.