How unprepared new parents feel in the UK

New parents Unprepared for their New arrival as half New Mums admit they don't leave the house for more than three days in a row

• New research reveals a third of new parents feel unprepared for having their baby
• New parents in the UK list lack of sleep, post-delivery pain and lack of alone time as the worst things about having a new-born
• Parents would sooner Google baby advice then seek help from a health professional
• The UK’s biggest parenting event, The Baby Show, returns Friday 19th – Sunday 21st May
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(17.05.17) Research undertaken by The Baby Show with MadeForMums, has revealed the extent to which new parents feel unprepared for their new arrivals, despite being a time where information and advice is more readily available than ever before.

A third (32%) of parents said they didn’t feel prepared for having their baby once it had arrived with self-doubt being a constant theme for new mothers, with 18% of women confessing to an irrational fear of hurting their new baby. 

The impact with which a new arrival can affect the day-to-day lives of parents is well known – however it continues to surprise new parents. Chief amongst concerns is the age-old problem of a lack of sleep, which the research found to be the most difficult thing about having a new-born.

Chireal Shallow, Sleep Expert and Speaker at The Baby Show, offers this advice: “Think about your state; are you calm, relaxed and ready to charm your baby to sleep? Your baby picks up on your mood, your body language and your mental state so if you are feeling anxious or stressed, then so is your baby. In order to help your child, you first need to examine yourself and change how you feel and in turn, your baby will mirror your state.”

The difficulties that occur during the early months of raising a new-born can be overwhelming, however there is little doubt that it is all worth it! Witnessing the growth and development of a baby was found to be the number one best thing about having a baby. The unconditional love it offers - the second best and seeing a baby smile for the very first time the third!Milli Hill adds: “It’s undeniable that there are lots of ups and downs when you become a new parent but it’s so important to talk about how you’re feeling and ask for help if you need it.  New parents can be very tough on themselves, worrying if they are getting it ‘right’, but remember, if your baby is safe and loved, you are doing an amazing job. Our babies think we are wonderful – we sometimes need to learn to appreciate ourselves as much as they do!”

The research was undertaken in January 2017, based upon the feedback of 1,000 new mums and dads.

The Baby Show with MadeForMums will be taking place from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st May, at the NEC Birmingham.