Dr Jessamy Hibberd, a clinical psychologist and mum-of-three, has been examining the early days with a new baby, asking why it’s so hard – even if it’s not your first. Here, she offers an explanation and sound advice for coping…
childbirth
Wellbeing
A fascinating exploration into the dynamics of antenatal groups by clinical psychologist Dr Virginia Lumsden. From the supportive, shoulder-to-cry-on friends you might make; to the judgments and comparisons that can make you feel anxious and left out…
Family
With 95% of expectant parents opting to find out the sex of their baby during the 20-week scan, it seems we’re fixated on whether we’re having a girl or a boy. But does it really matter? And when does gender preference become a feminist issue?
Work Life
“My mother had a positive and very medicalised birth which is exactly what she wanted.” But doula and reproductive rights campaigner Rebecca Schiller decided on a homebirth. This opened her eyes to the importance of choice when it comes to childbirth…
Wellbeing
With a growing trend for doulas acting as second birth partners during childbirth, Emma Sheppard asks what the role entails, where the boundaries lie between midwife and doula and why so many mothers are choosing to pay for extra help during labour…
Family
A photo capturing the moment BJ Barone’s son Milo was born, via surrogacy, went viral. It was later used, without permission, by European politicians to support their campaigns against surrogacy and LGBT families. He tells us about his journey to fatherhood…
Work Life
When is it ok to have sex after giving birth? What if you’re not in the mood – are there ways to bring the excitement back into the bedroom? And is there anything to be avoided? We ask sex therapist Juliet Grayson…
Wellbeing
For some, having a baby can be traumatic – with long-lasting psychological implications. So the NHS are offering birth reflections; inviting new mums to talk through what happened during childbirth. Stacey Oakes tells us why this is so important…