Someone in your corner?

There are many times in our lives when we need to feel that there is someone ‘there’ for us if we reach out. This needs to be a special someone we know we can rely on totally, someone who no matter what happens will remain ‘in our corner’ and be on our side.

A key moment when this need is felt is around the time of a pregnancy and birth of a baby. It doesn’t matter how old you are; it is a period when any mother will need extra support. Even our Prime Minister’s wife Cherie - who will be 46 when her baby is born next year - will need those close to her to be more understanding and considerate.

For a very young mother-to-be, the pressures are often extremely intense, and it is hard to understand why so many people feel they are entitled to make observations and comments which often feel to be critical or disapproving. It is hurtful to be told: ‘Ooo, you wait until you are up all night’ or even: ‘Silly girl, you have all your life in front of you, why didn’t you wait?’

In my experience this has meant many young women are reluctant to tell the world they are pregnant and as a result have often felt very much on their own. Luckily, many have a partner or have a close bond with a relative or friend with whom they can discuss their situation and feelings - feelings which are often very mixed.

It is no good shutting one’s eyes to the changes a baby will bring, and remember: a young mother’s own emotional preparation goes a long way to producing a contented mother and baby.

Meanwhile, talk to the other young mothers on this site. After all, if they are members, you know that they are in your corner for sure.

© Jill Curtis 2001