Single and Expecting? You can do it.

0

Being pregnant is one of the most enjoyable experiences that a woman can have, for as long as she feels loved, supported, and secure. For new moms, it is a scary time with many novel experiences and uncertainty.

While some single pregnant women are fortunate to have their baby daddies present during the pregnancy, others are left to carry, care for, and raise their babies by themselves.

Thankfully, women are resilient and strong.

A woman’s love for her child inspires and motivates her to surpass any difficulty, making her capable of juggling numerous roles with little or no help. It is not easy, but it is possible! Here is some advice on the first steps you can take as a single mother early in your pregnancy.

  1. Get prenatal care you can trust. – It is so important for a mom, single or otherwise, to be aware of what is going on with her body and her baby’s developments. Depending on your circumstances, you can opt to visit a clinic that offers free consultation (there are plenty that offer topnotch care), or you can ask your family and friends for recommendations on a doctor you can trust. Experienced moms find it essential that your values are aligned with those of your caregiver, because your shared values will guide the decisions you make throughout your pregnancy and during your delivery.
  2. Connect with a social worker. – Social workers are blessings to single mothers. They act as advocates and therapists for you, and are happy to support you on the journey of motherhood. They can help you get the resources you need, whether it’s for finding the right adoption agency or connecting you with single parenting groups.
  3. Get covered. – Contact your company’s human resources department to inquire about what support you can get for your pregnancy. This differs in every country, company, and role, so it would be helpful to get all of the information so that no opportunities are wasted. If you are currently a an entrepreneur or are unemployed, do your research on health care providers and choose one that best fits your budget, lifestyle, and needs.
  4. Know your rights as the mother of your child. – While it isn’t the best situation for your baby, if your baby’s father refuses involvement in your child’s life, know you do have the option to exclude him from the birth certificate. It is also possible for you to for legal action that can compel him to provide child support. Talk to a lawyer you can trust for all of the information.
  5. Enlist help – Ask a friend or a relative if you need help with cleaning the house, cooking dinner or putting together a nursery. Even if the baby’s father doesn’t want to get involved, there are many people around you who would want to be part of your baby’s life, too. Don’t be afraid to ask your sister, friend, parents, or neighbor for help. It’s so important to feel that you have a network of support during this challenging time.

At the end of the day, It doesn’t matter if this pregnancy was planned or unplanned, if you are single or in a relationship. It is a real gift to for women to experience pregnancy, so enjoy being pregnant to the fullest. Just remember that there are also so many women and couples who wish to be in your shoes.

Being single and pregnant isn’t going to be easy but if you consciously work towards to making a happy and stable life for your child, then you’re headed in the right direction. You CAN do it!

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here