Parent-to-parent: Avoiding isolation
At about this time, family members have returned to their own concerns in the "outside world" and the mother may be feeling tired and isolated. These general suggestions may help you avoid or overcome such feelings:
- Maintain a good relationship with your partner.
- Take time to call or visit friends.
- Take a nap when your baby naps.
- Obtain child care help from family or friends so you have some time for yourself.
- Don't worry about trying to keep your home as clean as usual.
Returning to workMany women will need to return to work soon. However, for some, returning to work does not bring in enough money to balance the expenses of child care, additional travel and other costs.
Child careChoosing child care can be difficult. There are many options. Each one requires some decisions on your part. Professional child care and family sitters both have advantages and disadvantages. Our choosing child care worksheet (requires Adobe Reader) may help you decide what's best for your family.
PartnersPartners often feel left out as mothers often take on most of the responsibility for the new baby. Couples should discuss how to share responsibility. Having partners assume some feeding, changing and other duties reduces the burden on mothers and helps partners realize their central role as parents. These activities also help strengthen bonds with the new baby.
Some partners may even feel some jealousy, as the new baby seems to monopolize the mother's time. You should discuss these feelings with your partner. Always take time to keep your relationship with each other strong and supportive.
Return to "Volume 3: The first month" Pregnancy Condition Center: Your recovery Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota: Parenting resources
Source: Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota
First published: 05/07/2001
Last updated: 05/24/2005
Reviewed by: Jennifer Rogan, MD, Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota
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