Rex
Sometimes the idea of giving up work for a few months, but still getting paid, seems like the answer to our prayers. But for some of us, the prospect of months of maternity leave with only a newborn baby for company might just, if we're honest, be a little bit intimidating. For sure it's a wonderful opportunity to bond with your baby and to know that he's getting the best start in life that you can provide, but many mums can also feel a little lonely now they're no longer seeing their colleagues every day and their social life is more tricky to organise.
That's why it's essential to build a group of friends who you can see regularly. Antenatal classes are a great way to meet other mums who are due around the same time as you. If you're lucky enough to find a group of like-minded mums, you could have a weekly activity sorted for the rest of the year. There are also a huge range of playgroups and mum-and-baby activities where you and your little one can socialise.
But the key to a maternity leave that's easy and stimulating for you AND your baby is to get chummy with the people who'll play a key part in your lives during your time off. So, from the doctor's receptionist to the staff at your local coffee shop, here's who SHOULD be your BFF when you're a new mum...
The staff at your local coffee shop
You're going to be spending a lot of time here! If your local caff is baby-friendly, it's a godsend during those cold or rainy days when you need to get out of the house but the weather's too horrid for a walk. We're betting you're on first-name terms with the barista before the winter's set in (and that your little one's first word is 'cappuccino'...).
A nearby new mum
Having someone to try out new baby groups with or who can pop round for a cuppa at a moment's notice can really help on those days that seem to drag. And if she knows exactly what you're going through, it can be really reassuring to compare notes and know you're not alone. So if it's a face you recognise from the park or from antenatal yoga, don't be shy about swapping numbers because you might just make a friend. Who thought you'd still be handing out your number at your age?!
The receptionist at your GP's surgery
So you don't have to beg for an appointment to get your little one's strange rash or temperature checked out asap, it's worth getting the gatekeeper to your doctor's time onside. It can be very difficult to see your GP at short notice as appointments are booked up weeks in advance. But the receptionist often keeps a few slots up her sleeve that she can allocate at her discretion, so it's a good move to get to know her. Try taking your new arrival down to the surgery when you get him registered, and allow him to work his charm.
A long-lost pal
You need a 'phone friend' who you can call during your daily stroll round the park or the umpteenth feed of the day (once you've nailed doing it one-handed!). Scan your contacts list for anyone who might be around during the day, and get back in touch. You're never alone when you're on the phone...
Any best buds you would like to add to our list?
Pregnant? Don't miss our pregnancy week-by-week guide and gallery below for a happy, healthy nine months...
- J is for...jeans
<p>
If you buy nothing else in a maternity style, buy a pair of soft, stretchy <a href="http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2011/02/13/maternity-jeans-flares-skinny-bootcut-dungarees-buying-guide/" target="_blank">jeans </a>with an elasticated waist for your growing bump. Bootcut styles will balance out your bump with the rest of your body, but if you’re a skinnies girl, there are plenty of maternity versions around.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.mothercare.com/ " target="_blank"> Mothercare</a> is winner for denim, but also check out <a href="http://www.dorothyperkins.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CatalogNavigationSearchResultCmd?catalogId=33053&storeId=12552&langId=-1&viewAllFlag=false&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208668&parent_categoryId=208600&beginIndex=1&pageSize=20#catalogId=33053&storeId=12552&langId=-1&viewAllFlag=false&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208668&parent_categoryId=208600&beginIndex=1&pageSize=20&refinements=category~[212220|208668]&noOfRefinements=1 " target="_blank">Dorothy Perkins Maternity</a> and <a href="http://www.mamajeanius.com/ " target="_blank">Mama Jeanius</a> for extensive ranges.</p>
- P is for... perineal massage
<p>
Sorry for bringing up something so scary-sounding, but tearing during childbirth is quite common. Give yourself the best chance of getting out without needing stitches with regular perineal massages to help yourself stretch. Try this Bump and Beyond Perfect Delivery Perineal Gel, £4.99 from <a href="http://www.mothercare.com/" target="_blank">Mothercare. </a></p>
- O is for...overdue
<p>
Only five per cent of babies arrive on time, exactly on their due date, so chances are, you might well be a little late, especially if this is your first baby.</p>
<p>
If you do go past your due date, you’ll probably have an appointment at 41 weeks to see how close you are to going into labour. If nothing happens for another week, chances are you’ll be induced to get yourself going.</p>
- C is for...car seat
<p>
Hospital staff will check you have a car seat fitted and ready before you leave with your newborn, so make sure you’ve done the shopping and fitting before your due date comes around. Head to <a href="http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/categorydisplay_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_categoryId_165586_langId_-1" target="_blank">Halfords</a> for an unbeatable range and free fitting, and gen up on what you need and when with our <a href="http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2011/06/25/car-seat-confusion-why-are-so-many-parents-still-risking-child/" target="_blank">no-waffle guide. </a></p>
- B is for...belly band
<p>
As your bump grows, your regular togs will start to feel a little tight around the middle. Invest in a bump band (or two or three for less washing) and pop one over the top of your trousers. They extend the life of your normal clothes if you want to put off buying maternity gear until you really have to, and keep you cosy, comfy and supported when you’re near the end of your pregnancy too.</p>
<p>
Try this pair for £8 for two from <a href="http://direct.asda.com/george/women-s-clothing/2-pack-grey-and-black-maternity-band/GEM53033,default,pd.html" target="_blank">George at ASDA.</a></p>
- T is for...teeth
<p>
During pregnancy, your body produces extra hormones that soften your gums, leaving them prone to bleeding, inflammation and other dental dramas. The good news is dental treatment and check-ups are free on the NHS during pregnancy. You just need to make sure you pick up your maternity exemption certificate from your midwife when you have your first appointment.</p>
- G is for...ginger
<p>
‘Ginger can help with morning sickess as it settles the stomach, so try sipping on fresh ginger in hot water or non-alcoholic ginger beer,’ says Wendy. ‘Nausea sometimes makes us want to eat more, so keep whole wheat crackers, oatcakes and other plain foods to hand which will ease sickness.’ Eating little and often to keep your blood sugar levels up and keeping hydrated can also help beat nausea so sip water slowly and frequently throughout the day.</p>
- U is for...underwear
<p>
Your breasts will grow during your pregnancy as they prepare for you to feed your new baby. Some mums-to-be prefer non-wired bras through their nine months as they can be more comfy for your changing shape, but pop along to <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/" target="_blank">M&S</a> for a free fitting before you bulk buy. It’s best to get measured regularly throughout your pregnancy, as your shape will grow and change all the time. Try <a href="http://www.mamasandpapas.com/" target="_blank">Mamas and Papas</a> and <a href="http://www.amoralia.com/shop/maternity-bras/nougatine/cat1/prod15/" target="_blank">Amoralia</a> for this gorgeous set, the Nougatine Bra, £39 and Briefs, £19.</p>
- H is for...haircare
<p>
Your normal daily hair loss can slow down in pregnancy, so you may find yourself feeling like a L’Oreal girl with all the shine and extra thickness. If you’re a hair dye fan, experts usually advise not to do it during the first trimester. Try highlights instead as the dye doesn’t touch your scalp. </p>
- N is for...no alcohol
<p>
The jury’s out on how much alcohol mums-to-be can have, but to be on the safe side, avoid it. There are loads of yummy alcohol-free juices to choose from, so next time you’re in the supermarket, head to the cool drinks aisle and try something new.</p>
- E is for...eating for two (or not!)
<p>
Sorry, ladies, this is a myth! ‘You don’t need to double your calorie intake when expecting – unfortunately!’ explains Wendy Powell, fitness and nutrition expert and founder of the <a href="http://mutusystem.com/" target="_blank">MuTu® System. </a>‘During pregnancy your calorie intake needs to increase to around 2,500 a day. But it’s quality not quantity that matters. Your baby’s nutrition is only as good as the food you eat, so remember that achieving your extra calories with a pack of crisps won’t help either of you!’ Pack in lots of fruit and veg, starchy foods and foods rich in protein like lean meat, chicken and fish.</p>
- I is for...itchy skin
<p>
As your tummy and breasts grow, your skin stretches and might start to itch and become irritated. Slathering on pregnancy-safe body lotion or having a warm bath or shower can help, and stick to loose, cotton clothes that don’t aggravate the itchiness.</p>
- K is for...keeping cool
<p>
Extra blood pumping around your body to grow your baby can up your body temperature. Keep hydrated and go for loose, cotton clothes that won’t make you sweat. A fan on your desk at work can also work wonders – ask your HR department if they can sort one out. Avoid hot baths, saunas and jacuzzis during your nine months too, as they can increase the temperature in your womb making it difficult for your baby to cool down.</p>
- S is for...stretch marks
<p>
To make room for your growing baby, your tummy stretches, and can sometimes leave paler wiggly lines on your belly and boobs. Want to try and protect against them? Our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/parentdishuk" target="_blank">Facebook </a>mums had these suggestions:</p>
<p>
‘I used <a href="http://www.elemis.com/skincare/ProductDetails.aspx?pid=40" target="_blank">Elemis Japanese Camelia Oil</a> when I was pregnant with Addison - although pricey it was a real treat and my beautician comments at my lack of stretch marks. The smell is just gorgeous and I still use it now.’<br />
Charlotte Everiss, mum to Addison.<br />
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‘<a href="http://www.bio-oil.com/en/" target="_blank">Bio Oil!</a> I have two daughters and not one stretch mark anywhere!’<br />
Kelly Hurst, mum to Lydia and Thea.<br />
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‘I just used <a href="http://www.nivea.co.uk/" target="_blank">Nivea body moisturiser</a> and moisturised my bump in the morning and evening. It must have done the trick as I haven’t been left with any stretch marks.’<br />
Katie Walters.</p>
- R is for... recce
<p>
Before your little one comes along, take a stroll around your neighbourhood and hunt out cafes where you can take your baby and be welcomed with open arms. Look for breastfeeding mums amongst the coffee cups and cosy corners. Knowing you have somewhere nice to go will make heading out with your new baby a lot less stressful when the time does come.</p>
- X is for...x-rated action
<p>
Sex in pregnancy is perfectly safe, as long as your waters haven’t broken, and you might find you’re suddenly up for a bit more action during the second trimester. Feeling a bit tense or worried? Always talk to your partner about your concerns, or perhaps try a massage to wind down.</p>
- F is for...folic acid
<p>
Mums-to-be need to take a 400 mgs of <a href="http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2010/01/11/f-what-are-the-benefits-of-folic-acid/ " target="_blank">folic acid</a> tablet every day until the 12 week mark (and before when trying to conceive if it’s not too late) to help prevent the risk of spina bifida. You can also up your <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/Planners/pregnancycareplanner/Pages/vitaminsmineralsdiets.aspx" target="_blank">intake </a>naturally by munching on lots of green, leafy vegetables and brown rice.</p>
- Q is for...quality time
<p>
Bonding with your unborn baby might sound a bit odd, but it’s important to help you connect to your bump and prepare you for meeting your baby. Read up on everything that’s going on in your tummy with our <a href="http://www.parentdish.co.uk/category/pregnancy-week-by-week" target="_blank">pregnancy week by week guide</a>, and try playing music and talking to your tummy to feel connected.</p>
- L is for...leg cramps
<p>
Carrying extra weight around can take its toll on your pins, and can result in leg and calf cramps. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and try foot exercises to stretch the muscles, which can easily be done when you’re at work, watching TV or on the bus. Simply bend your foot up and down a couple of times an hour throughout the day and just before bed. </p>
- Z is for...zzzzzzz
<p>
Extra body weight, increased body temperature and mum-to-be night time niggles can make getting your beauty sleep tricky. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/parentdishuk?ref=ts" target="_blank">Parentdish Facebook</a> fan Ruth Shirley reccomends a pregnancy pillow to wrap under your bump and through your legs to keep comfy. Try the popular DreamGenii, £45.99 from <a href="http://dreamgenii.com/" target="_blank">Dreamgenii.com:</a><br />
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‘A long body pillow between my legs and up under my bump and boobs for comfort, milky drinks and lavender oil on my pillow worked for me’</p>
- D is for...decoding your buggy
<p>
Whatever you do, buy and have a play with your pram before your baby comes along. There is nothing more stressful than trying to head outside with your newborn for the <a href="http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2011/04/13/taking-your-newborn-baby-out/" target="_blank">first time</a> and having to faff around trying to get out the door, getting upset and teary because your state of the art four wheel drive won’t pop up properly.</p>
- V is for...varicose veins
<p>
These are dark, swollen veins that can appear on your skin (most commonly on legs) during pregnancy when your growing baby puts pressure on your body pumping around extra blood. Keeping your feet elevated and not standing still for long periods of time can help. You can also buy special maternity tights, and if they get very bad or painful, contact your midwife or GP for prescribed compression stockings.</p>
- W is for...water
<p>
If you’re expecting, you might find you feel thirsty or suffer from dehydration. ‘This is because water is needed for the development of amniotic fluid around your developing baby,’ explains Dr Derbyshire, independent advisor to the Natural Hydration Council and author of <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nutrition-Childbearing-Years-Emma-Derbyshire/dp/1444333054/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1314970421&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Nutrition in the Childbearing Years. </a></p>
<p>
‘Morning sickness, can also contribute to dehydration if there is fluid loss through vomiting. As a rule of thumb mums-to-be should aim to drink around 300ml more than their normal, pre-pregnancy daily fluid intake of 6-8 glasses. <br />
<br />
‘Other drinks including tea, coffee, juice and milk can contribute to our daily hydration needs.'</p>
<p>
Watch your caffeine intake during your nine months, and limit yourself to 200mg a day, which adds up to two mugs of tea or two cups of instant coffee.</p>
- M is for...maternity leave
<p>
You need to let your employer know about your pregnancy at least 15 weeks before the start of the week your baby is due. Arrange a one-to-one with your boss and have all the information, like your due date, when you’re hoping to start your leave and any up and coming appointments for your pregnancy with you, so you’re prepared.</p>
- A is for...anxiety
<p>
Many mums-to-be feel anxious and nervous throughout their pregnancy - especially with baby number one. Talk to your midwife when you see her if you any niggling worries. You’ll see her regularly throughout your nine months, so write your worries down and take them along when you see her. Try gentle exercise to help keep you calm and take your mind of your concerns too. Swimming is an excellent way to relax and keep fit - why not ask a friend or your partner to go along with you?</p>
- Y is for...yawning
<p>
Extra body weight and an increase in hormones whizzing around your expanding bod’ can make you, quite frankly, knackered and a bit grumpy. Don’t be embarrassed about needing extra sleep, or not being up for going out and meeting friends if you don't fancy it.</p>
<p>
‘When I was pregnant I was shattered, and being the first of my friends to be expecting, they didn’t quite get it when I didn’t want to go out,’ says mum, Katie Smith. ‘I kept up with them by inviting them around for dinner or suggesting a movie night rather than trooping out and about or going to a pub.’</p>
