Some people come out as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) after trying to make a heterosexual marriage or relationship work. When the LGBT person comes out, the straight partner is likely to feel rejection, betrayal, shock, anger, confusion — or any combination of these natural reactions.

While no two situations are the same, straight partners of LGBT people have unique needs and can find peer support at the Straight Spouse Network.

Some people come out after trying to make a straight marriage work.

If the couple share children, it's important to remember that the LGBT spouse is still a parent, and protecting the relationship with the children should be a primary goal. For more, please read Lambda Legal's "What's Best for Your Kids?"

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