Q&A: I want to change my baby's name. What should I do?

by Marie O'Sullivan, RN

We have a 2-month old son, his name is Agostino "Augie" Michael, and we've named him after his grandfather. I love my son dearly but I don't like his name at all. My husband and I argued the whole time I was pregnant. I wanted to name him Michael after his father, but someone had to win and obviously it wasn't me. Since he was born I have been very depressed about his name. Every time I hear the name: Michael, I get jealous and wish it were my son's name. I am also very angry with my husband about it, I feel as though he pushed me to name him Agostino.

Now, everyone is calling him Augie and my husband wants to change and have everyone call him Michael because it has put space between us and has been causing a lot of arguments. But I feel terrible about changing my son's name, too. I feel that I'm such a bad mother and I'm taking away my son's name and humiliating him. I don't know what to do. My son is perfect to me and I want him to have a name that his Mommy loves. Can you please help me and tell me what I should do about this?

I know lots of people who are named after an older relative with an uncommon name. All of these people use the middle name because it is easier. It seems as though your husband is understanding your feelings. This could be a win-win situation. Your husband got to name his son after his grandfather and you get to call him by the name you wanted. If you are going to change what you call your son, do it soon because it will take your family and friends awhile to get used to the change. Then, when your son is old enough to recognize his name, everyone will be calling him the same thing. Make peace with your husband and don't feel like a bad mother. You and your husband have your son's best interest in mind. I hope this helps you.

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