Finding out you are pregnant is a life-changing experience in itself. For some women, it comes as a huge surprise and for others, it is a long road of anticipation and worry. Regardless of how you got here there is no denying that a positive pregnancy test profoundly affects your life in so many ways.
Finding out you are pregnant is a life-changing experience in itself. For some women, it comes as a huge surprise and for others, it is a long road of anticipation and worry. Regardless of how you got here there is no denying that a positive pregnancy test profoundly affects your life in so many ways.
Your relationships are no exception to this. It will feel as though it changes your relationship with everyone from your husband to the postman because everything in your world will feel different for a while.
It can feel a little overwhelming trying to maintain and enjoy friendships in the same way that you did before your baby came along. Particularly when a friend is not a parent. It can feel as though you are often unavailable to them while they are just as available as they always were.
Here are our top tips to help you maintain friendships with friends who do not have children:
- As with all relationships, communication really is key. Pregnancy is a great time to explore the idea of things being a bit different for quite some time. The nights out and shopping sprees will be replaced by night feeds and exhaustion. There is a lot to be said for being open and honest about your fears regarding how your time together may have to change when the baby comes along.
- Remember that less is often more when it comes to those really special friendships. You don’t have to sit and chat for four hours to have quality time. A quick coffee date or a trip to the nail salon can be just as special if you make the time count.
- Don’t assume that your friend wants to talk about everything but your baby. You’re focusing on her tinder adventures but she really wants to know everything about your beautiful baby.
- Honesty is the best policy. If you don’t feel ready to leave your baby and meet for dinner or cocktails then be upfront and honest about it. A good friend won’t pressure you and will appreciate the honesty.
- Embrace a new normal rather than focusing on all that used to be. Your time is more precious than ever now – let the winds of change do their thing.
- Value your friend's advice. She may not have children but she knows you better than anyone else so do not disregard her advice or input as it shows that she has a genuine interest. You won’t want to make her feel silly for trying to help.
- Show genuine interest in your friend's life. It may feel worlds apart from what you are experiencing now but a year ago it was completely normal to you too.
- Don’t wait to be asked. Your friends may not want to put pressure on you for meet-ups. Suggesting a lunch date or walk in the park could be the best thing you ever do.
Written by Tracey Quinn staff writer at FFHQ who also blogs at www.loveofliving.ie.
