Symptoms during pregnancy and after having a baby 

When someone is pregnant or has just had a baby, there are some things they might feel or experience. Here are some common ones:

Experiencing tiredness: Being pregnant or looking after a new baby can make you feel tired. It’s important to rest more and get more sleep during this time. 

Feeling happy or sad: Sometimes, mums and dads might feel incredibly happy because they’re going to have a baby. But they might also feel a little worried or stressed sometimes. That’s okay, and it’s important to talk about how you’re feeling with someone you trust. It could be a friend, someone who has had similar experiences or your GP. 

Changes in eating: When you’re pregnant or after having a baby, you might notice that you want to eat different foods or that you’re not as hungry as usual. This is normal because your body is changing, and your appetite changes because of that. 

Feeling sick: Some mums feel physically unwell, especially in the early months of pregnancy. This is called morning sickness, but it can happen at any time of the day. Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for morning sickness, but getting plenty of rest and drinking water can help. 

Worried about the baby: It’s common for mums and dads to worry about their baby’s health and safety, especially if it’s their first baby. This is normal, but it’s also important to ask a doctor or nurse if you have any questions or concerns.

These are just a few things that new mums and dads might feel or experience during pregnancy and after having a baby. Every person is different, so not everyone will feel the same way. If you or someone you know is having a baby and feels unsure or worried about anything, it’s okay to ask for help or talk to a doctor. 

Will my mental health condition be affected by pregnancy? 

Pregnancy can affect your mental health, especially if you already have a mental health condition have experienced poor mental health in the past. Hormone changes, sleep problems and stress during pregnancy and postpartum can make things harder. But it’s different for everyone. Talk to your doctor and midwife about your feelings and worries to get the support you need. That might mean adjusting your treatment or getting extra help. It’s important to take care of yourself for both you and your baby. You can read more about it on Tommy’s website.

How can I take care of myself? 

When you’re pregnant or have just had a baby, it’s important to take care of yourself. Here are some things you can do: 

Rest: Being pregnant or looking after a new baby can be tiring, so make sure you get plenty of rest when you can. 

Eat well: Eating healthy food is important for you and your baby. Try to eat a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Do not drink any alcohol or any raw food when pregnant, as this might hurt the baby.

Exercise: Gentle exercise like walking or swimming can help you feel better and stay healthy during pregnancy and after having a baby. Make sure not to do strenuous exercise, as it might harm the baby.

Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Whether you need help with chores, looking after the baby, or just someone to talk to, there are people who can help. A list of organisations who can help you is at the bottom of this page.

Take time for yourself: It’s important to take some time for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes each day. Try to do something you enjoy, like reading a book or taking a bath, and continue to engage in the hobbies you most enjoy.

How can I help others? 

If someone you know is pregnant or has just had a baby, there are many ways you can support and help them:

Offer to help: Offer to help with chores, cooking meals or looking after older children so the new parent can rest. The smallest things can make the biggest difference.

Listen: Sometimes, all someone needs is someone to listen to them. Let them know you’re there for them if they want to talk.

Be understanding: Understand that being pregnant or having a new baby can be overwhelming. Be patient and offer your support without judgement.

Provide practical support: Offer to run errands, pick up groceries or provide transportation to appointments. Any small tasks that you can ease the burden of new parents.

Respect their decisions: Understand their parenting choices and any decisions they make regarding their pregnancy or baby.

Remember, even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference to someone who is pregnant or has just had a baby. Your support and help can mean the world to them during this special time.