Parenting and Social Support

What is social support?

• Social support means having people to turn to when you need them.

Supportive people:

• Listen to you.

• Treat you with kindness and respect.

• Help you figure out how to solve problems.

Why is social support important in pregnancy?

• We all need social support, especially when we go through big life changes.

• Pregnancy is a very big life change and can be stressful at times.

What resources are available to meet people?

• Childbirth education classes

• Pregnancy support groups

• Breastfeeding classes

• Parenting or community groups

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF SO THAT YOU CAN TAKE CARE OF YOUR BABY

• You are the most important person in the world to your baby.

• You need to take good care of yourself, so you can take care of your baby.

• See your healthcare provider for your postpartum visit and interconception care.

• Use family planning (birth control).

• Wait at least 18 months after giving birth before getting pregnant again.

• Find someone to care for your baby so you can take breaks.

• When you feel down or alone, reach out for support.