Where to get support

Everyone needs advice or reassurance at some time or other when they are caring for a young baby, even if it’s just to make sure that they are doing the right thing. Some problems just need talking over with someone. It’s always better to ask for help than worry on your own. Do talk to your midwife or health visitor. As you grow more confident, you’ll begin to trust your own judgement more. You will be able to decide which advice makes most sense for you and your baby and which suggestions you can safely ignore.

You will also want to talk to friends, relations or other mothers in a similar situation. You’ll meet other mothers when you start taking your baby to the Child Health Clinic. Your health visitor will explain where this is and when you should go. The health visitor can also tell you about any mother and baby groups in the area. Or your local branch of the National Childbirth Trust or MAMA (Meet-A-Mum Association) may be able to put you in touch with other mothers nearby.

Information provided by Health Promotion England.