Sources of information and advice for new parents

When you become a new parent, you’re suddenly bombarded from all angles with tiny babygros, offers of babysitting (hopefully!) and of course plenty of well-meaning advice from friends and family who have been there before and think they know it all.

Having this kind of support network in place, and being able to turn to people you know and trust for advice can of course be hugely beneficial, but there are also times when it can be potentially damaging to your confidence as a parent.

Take breastfeeding for example, one of the most controversial parenting topics around. It seems that everyone has an opinion, whether it be that breastfeeding is the best thing in the world, or that it doesn’t matter at all.

To help you, as a parent, discover the best places to go when you want advice from someone a little more objective, we’ve put together a list of a few of our favourite sources of information:

Antenatal classes: Preparing for the birth and early days with a new baby is incredibly valuable, especially if you are a first time parent, and antenatal classes are a great source of information, advice and support on everything from the technicalities of birth and pain relief through to the emotional impact of becoming a parent.

Your midwife or GP will probably be able to recommend local classes, or if you want to pay a little bit extra, The National Childbirth Trust courses are a great investment. Not only are antenatal classes a good source of advice, they are also a brilliant way to make friends with other new and expectant parents, and many mums and dads find that the friends they make at this stage become friends for life.

Relationship advice – although we don’t always want to admit it, having a new baby puts a massive strain on a relationship. It’s a time when you want to be showing the world that your life is rosy, but don’t worry, it’s quite normal to find yourself struggling to maintain the intimacy you once shared with your partner, especially when you factor in lack of sleep!

If you are concerned, and want to talk to someone in confidence outside of your friendship group, then online and telephone support services such as those offered by Greatvine, who have a team of experts available to give relationship and sex advice, are a good option.

Breastfeeding – as we’ve said already, breastfeeding is a hugely personal issue, and may not be a subject you fancy talking about in detail with your mother-in-law. Fortunately, there is plenty of advice and support available, it’s just a question of knowing where to look.

If you want to meet other mums, and are looking for face-to-face support, ask your midwife or health visitor about any local breastfeeding support groups. For more adhoc advice, or for support with specific problems or issues, you can call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212 and talk to a trained and experienced breastfeeding counsellor.

Whatever the issue though, the important thing is to seek support, whether it be from a friend, family member or professional. A problem shared after all really is a problem halved!