Transition to Parenthood
Although becoming a parent can undoubtedly be one of life’s most joyful milestones, the transition to parenthood can nonetheless be a difficult, stressful time for a woman, even under the best of circumstances. Not only do gender roles and identities begin to rapidly change, but juggling the needs of children, work, and a partner (and let’s not forget yourself) can become increasingly challenging, and even overwhelming.
Immediately upon discovering that you are pregnant, parenting begins, and most women start to deal with conflicting opinions, information, and judgments by well-meaning relatives and friends. Both prior to and after the arrival of your baby(ies), the onslaught of contradictory information and commentary can be daunting, and even more so when your own feelings clash with those of important people in your life.
Regardless of your situation, transitioning to parenthood runs the gamut of feelings, which include excitement, anxiety, confusion, and uncertainty. Aptly navigating this time of “mixed emotions” can truly help to prepare you (and your partner) for the various and often challenging stages of parenthood that lie ahead.
Pregnancy and Prenatal Support
Pregnancy can be an amazingly positive experience, but for many it can be a bumpy one, filled with ups and downs. The way you are feeling emotionally and/or physically can not necessarily be entirely attributed to hormones and your rapidly changing body.
Bringing a new life into the world has many implications, which can cause irritability, worry, nervousness, fear, anger, and mood swings at any or all stages of pregnancy.
In fact, some women experience actual prenatal depression and/or anxiety. Not feeling blissfully happy is actually normal!
Common prenatal stressors may include:
- Fear of labor, various aspects of delivery, and the unknown
- Financial factors, including childcare costs
- High-risk pregnancy
- Anxiety about motherhood and all that comes with it
- Lack of space; decisions about moving
- Work-related stressors
Reasons for prenatal support may include:
- Conflicts with parents, in-laws, and relatives
- History of infertility, miscarriages(s), stillborn birth(s), or other losses
- Lack of support/understanding from your partner
- Limited social support network
- History of depression and/or anxiety
- Medical problems/high-risk pregnancy
