Dear New Mums,

Congratulations on embarking on this beautiful journey of motherhood! Whether it’s your first child or your 9^th, it's a new chapter of life filled with overwhelming love, joy, and challenges that can sometimes leave you feeling like you're wandering through uncharted territory. As you navigate this new phase, it's completely natural to have questions and uncertainties. However, there might be times when fear of feeling inadequate or uninformed keeps you from seeking the answers you need. I have been there! Rest assured, you are not alone in this experience.

The Silent Struggle

The feeling of vulnerability as a new mum is universal. You're entrusted with the care and well-being of your precious little one, and every decision you make can feel like a monumental one. Yet, when it comes to asking questions, many new mothers hesitate. The fear of judgment or appearing "clueless" can be a significant barrier to seeking help. It can be even more difficult to ask for help and advice if this is not your first child as you ‘should’ be an old hand at this… it’s amazing how quickly you forget! Add to that the absence of antenatal services or the presence of limited support networks, and it's no wonder that feelings of isolation can creep in.

Just recently I posted an advertisement for Bath Babies on a local Facebook group and it was clear form the comments that the older generation didn’t appreciate how lonely and scary it can be as a parent, most likely as they would have had their children whilst living very close to lots of relatives so there was lots of hands to ‘stir the pots’ or hold the baby.

Yearning for Connection

In an ideal world, antenatal services and support groups would provide a safe space for new mums to ask questions without hesitation. Unfortunately, the lack of such services can make the journey feel isolating. You might find yourself surfing the internet in the middle of the night, desperately seeking answers, or relying solely on trial and error.

Embracing Your Curiosities

It's time to break down the walls that the fear of asking questions has built around you. Acknowledge that seeking help doesn't equate to weakness – it showcases your strength and dedication as a parent. Embrace the notion that asking questions is an essential part of growth and learning. Remember, no one is born with all the knowledge about motherhood – it's a learning process for everyone. From feeding schedules to sleep patterns, and from nappy changes to soothing techniques, every little piece of advice can make a world of difference. Bath Babies classes are not about showing mums how to wash their babies or giving practical advice, they are a nurturing environment and safe space where parents could learn nurturing touch and have a safe environment if they needed to ask those questions they might not want to elsewhere.

Building Your Support Network

While it might feel like you're alone on this journey, there's a vast community of new mums who are experiencing similar thoughts and emotions. I was one of them and I still regularly reflect on how I felt as a new mum with each of my 4 children as each experience was different. Connecting with other mothers, whether online or through local meetups, can be an incredible source of comfort and reassurance. Sharing your concerns and triumphs with others who are walking the same path can help you feel understood and supported.

Moreover, don't underestimate the power of seeking guidance from experienced parents, friends, or even healthcare professionals. Their insights can provide a wealth of knowledge and give you the confidence to make informed decisions. At Bath babies classes there is a lot of time for chatting and sharing knowledge as well as time to focus on what you need as a new parent as well as what your baby needs.

Empathy and Understanding

To all the new mums out there who are grappling with these feelings of uncertainty and isolation, know that your emotions are valid and shared by countless others. It's important to remind yourself that there is no shame in seeking answers, and there are people who genuinely want to help and listen. Just because postnatal services might be absent doesn't mean you're alone – you're a part of a community that is rooting for you.

In summary 

Dear new mums, your journey into motherhood is unique and beautiful, but it's also filled with questions and moments of doubt. Remember that you are strong and capable, and that seeking guidance is a sign of courage, not weakness. Don't let the absence of postnatal services or fear of judgment hold you back from reaching out for support.

Embrace your curiosity, connect with fellow mums, ask those questions, and lean on those who have walked this path before you. By doing so, you'll not only be enriching your own experience but also contributing to the collective wisdom of motherhood.

You've got this, and you're not alone.

With love and understanding,

Leanne X