“I felt a little bit more lost than I anticipated,” a quote from a mom in Chelsea Conaboy’s excellent article about the emotional experience of pregnancy and new motherhood.  Most physicians do not talk with us about these changes because they are not well-trained in emotional development.  But, a mid-wife or doula might talk about these changes.  They are one of the most important resources for women as they approach for motherhood.  Doulas, in particular, are trained specifically to help women appreciate that the transition in roles will involve a profound change in what they think about and the priorities in their lives. Is it an emotional roller-coaster?  For most women, yes.  Will it mean you become a different person forever?  Well, yes, but so will any other major life transition and most of the changes in our priorities mean we become transformed.  Postpartum Support International (www.postpartum.net) is an organization committed to raising awareness about the emotional and relationship transitions involved in mothers’ pregnancy and infant care.  We at Peace At Home Parenting Solutions want to encourage all women to become informed about the well-understood emotional and relationship transitions that are involved in pregnancy and early infancy.  Doing so, will mean we can better support each other. New mothers need mothering…that means kindness, understanding, encouragement, and friendship. These are important antidotes to the self-doubt, anxiety, and other feelings of overwhelm that happen in this very important life transition.  Babies do not come with guide books but guides are available and we, at Peace At Home Parenting Solutions are here to listen, guide, and encourage all mothers and fathers to learn about their children and themselves.

– JoAnn Robinson

Inspired by this article: https://www.bostonglobe.com/magazine/2018/07/17/pregnant-women-care-ignores-one-most-profound-changes-new-mom-faces/CF5wyP0b5EGCcZ8fzLUWbP/story.html