Are you ready?
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One of the first things to consider is whether you are ready for a new baby. If you are in a partnership these are some typical questions that you might like to consider together:
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- Why do we want to conceive?
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- Is it too soon or too late?
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- How will a baby affect our relationship?
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- Can we cope with extra responsibility?
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- How will a baby affect our lifestyle and freedom, now and in the future?
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- Will we return to work? If so, who? full or part-time? when?
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- How will a baby enrich our lives?
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- Do we feel comfortable with each other's values and attitudes to parenting?
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- Are there any experiences we've had that may affect our parenting?
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Need some help?
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It is not unusual to be confused about the decision to have children, nor is it uncommon for couples to find the issue difficult to resolve. If you are experiencing problems you may find it useful to seek counselling.
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If you feel you need some support you can contact the Women's Health Information Centre at the Royal Women's Hospital, Women's Information and Referral Exchange on 1300 134 130 or your local community health centre.
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Single parenting
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Many people parent without a partner, and while it is very challenging and at times extremely difficult, it is important to remember that you don't have to do it alone. Networks of family and friends are vital for single parents, as is contact with other single parents. There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that single parenting has a detrimental impact on children. Your wellbeing and happiness are the most important influences on your child.
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For singles, establishing a home can be difficult, both financially and emotionally. Centrelink can provide information on financial support. The Council of Single Mothers and Their Children and the Caroline Chisholm Society may be useful contacts.
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Your support networks
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Pregnancy can be a time when women really benefit from the care and support of others. Talking to and spending time with others who have had babies may be helpful. A support network can include a partner, friends, family members or people in local groups within your community. You may want to put some thought into the support networks you have around you, and what you feel you may need during your pregnancy and after the birth of the baby. Here are just some of the ways your support network may help you:
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- someone to chat with or offer advice
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- hands-on, practical support
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- helpful hints learnt from experience
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- attending birthing classes
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- preparing the baby's room
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- adding safety fixtures to the home
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Community support available
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- community centres/neighbourhood houses
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- Australian Breastfeeding Association
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- PANDA for post and antenatal depression
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- Maternal and Child Health Centres
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- the Council of Single Mothers and their Children
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Important things to remember
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If you're not sure about your readiness for parenthood, talk to your friends and family. Or, if this doesn't help, talk to a counsellor.
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Develop a network of support - friends with children, family and community groups.
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Further information and contacts
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Women's Health Information Centre (WHIC)
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The Royal Women's Hospital
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Tel: (03) 8345 3045 or 1800 442 007 (rural callers)
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Women's Information and Referral Exchange (WIRE)
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Tel: 1300 134 130
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Web: http://www.wire.org.au
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Centrelink
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Web: http://www.centrelink.gov.au
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Council of Single Mothers and Their Children
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Web: http://www.ncsmc.org.au
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Caroline Chisholm Society
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Tel: (03) 9370 3933
1800 134 863 (country callers)
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Web: http://www.carolinechisholmsociety.com.au
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Excerpt from the Preparing for Pregnancy booklet produced by the Royal Women's Hospital consumer health publications.
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Disclaimer
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The Royal Women’s Hospital does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided in this fact sheet or incorporated into it by reference. We provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.
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Last updated Jan 2008
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