Having a supportive social network can help to reduce stress, depression, and anxiety, improve physical health, and reduce the risk of pregnancy and birth complications. Having support around you can also help to increase your motivation and drive to make healthy lifestyle changes. Feeling well supported during pregnancy can offer a sense of connection and belonging, as well as emotional comfort and reassurance, which can help you manage any worries or concerns that may arise.

Social support is likely to look different for different people

For some, feeling supported might mean having regular phone calls with a loved one, while for others it might mean receiving more practical support such as help with childcare, or having someone prepare a meal for you when you’re low on energy. Support also comes from different people. It might come from family, friends, or other mums-to-be, but it might also be from healthcare providers such as midwives, doctors or from antenatal support groups.There are also likely to be cultural differences in the way support is offered from friends and family, or the type of support you might feel that you need.

Top tips to build support

  • Reach out – tell others how you are feeling
  • Join antenatal groups - there are lots of free pregnancy support groups available, some of which are run in-person and others online.
  • Try something new - connecting with others who have similar interests is a great way to meet people you know you’ll have something in common with. While these might not be pregnancy-focused activities, you never know who you might meet or the kind of support they might be able to offer you.
  • Talk to your maternity team - if you’re really struggling to feel connected and could do with additional support, reach out to someone from your maternity team, such as your GP or your midwife. They’re there to support you throughout your pregnancy journey. You can share your concerns, and allow them to provide you with the reassurance and guidance that you need.
  • Connect online - there are lots of websites for mums-to-be which offer expert advice, real-life stories, and forums where you can chat about various pregnancy topics.

Visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/getconnected for ideas around how to tackle loneliness.

The Derbyshire Mental Health Support Map features lots of useful organisations and support.

Navigating relationship changes

Pregnancy can sometimes intensify existing tensions or create new challenges in relationships. You might notice arguments becoming more frequent or intense, or experience feelings of being controlled, isolated, or afraid. These situations can involve romantic partners but may also stem from family members or others in your community. If you find yourself in regular conflict or feel unsafe in any way, it's crucial to seek support. Your midwife can offer confidential support and connect you with specialised services if needed.

Domestic Abuse

Speak up and seek immediate help if you experience any form of abuse or you feel uncomfortable in any relationship. Babies can sense conflict in the womb and high maternal stress affects fetal development. Do not wait to speak out. If you are impacted by domestic abuse, remember that it’s not your fault - domestic abuse can happen to anyone.

There are lots of services that support people experiencing domestic abuse and their children.

The Elm Foundation

The Elm Foundation offers support and advice for people experiencing domestic abuse in Derbyshire: www.theelmfoundation.org.uk

The Derbyshire Domestic Abuse Helpline

Call free on 08000 198 668 or visit www.derbyshiredomesticabusehelpline.co.uk