Taking Baby Home

A new baby is an incredible challenge in any situation. You will probably need more support from family and friends when you come home from the hospital because you won't have someone with whom to share the responsibilities. Don't hesitate to ask for help. If you have no one you can ask to give of their time, consider hiring someone to stay with you at night for the first week or two, so you can get back on your feet.

Single mothers who are my patients sometimes wonder if they or their baby will be treated differently by others in the community. Today, being a single mother isn't that unusual, so I doubt you will be treated differently. Many women of all ages have made this decision. A few people may treat you differently; others won't care. Good friends and family members should draw closer to you.