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Pregnancy

01st May 2020

Can I help? During the lockdown remember to look out for your pregnant friends

Melissa Carton

I don’t think I’ve met a mum who didn’t worry during pregnancy.

Even though pregnancy is an exciting and joyous time it can also be stressful.

I remember constantly second guessing every decision I made during all of my pregnancies.

Am I allowed to eat this? Should I be doing so much exercise? Am I doing everything that I’m supposed to be?

I can’t imagine how stressful it must be for pregnant mums right now given the current pandemic.

They have to go for appointments at hospitals that are high risk areas and many of them are being asked to give birth without any birth partner.

There’s also the added stress of doing even the little things like popping to the shops for groceries, which usually means waiting in long queues outside of the stores. Not easy when you’re pregnant.

Right now, it’s more important than ever to check in with expectant mums that you know to make sure that they are holding up ok.

I know myself I was the absolute worst for asking for help during pregnancy and no doubt many expectant mums could use a hand but don’t want to trouble anyone.

Reach out first and let them know that you are here.

Whether it’s to pick up groceries for them, pick up a prescription they might need or even just for a chat.

Feeling isolated can also bring symptoms of depression in expectant mums so a text message or phone call, especially a video call, could make all the difference.

Right now is not an easy time for any of us and it’s important that we all look out for each other, but particularly those who are more vulnerable.

There’s no better feeling as a mum than knowing you have the support of others so don’t forget to offer a hand to an expectant mum in your life, they might really need it.