How to Prepare for Motherhood as a Pregnant Single Mom

What to Expect as a Single Parent

Common Issues for Pregnant Single Moms

Being single and pregnant means you will likely be responsible for a wide range of changes to come in the next few months and throughout your future. It is important to know that some of the most common challenges women face during pregnancy specifically include:

• Emotional struggles are likely. Your hormones will change rapidly, and with that comes days when it will be challenging to focus on the good. Those moments will pass.
• Balancing work and time off will be critical to give your body more time to restore your energy levels. Single mothers often must find a way to juggle those desires to do more with less energy.
• Lack of financial support can be critically challenging for some, especially if you are unsure how you will prepare for the baby and cannot miss work even if you are feeling overwhelmed.
• Your life is your own, and the challenges you face within it will range widely. However, there are several positive strategies you can put into place now for help.
  

How to Thrive Being Single and Pregnant

Consider these tools that will provide you with the support you need for those tough moments. You can thrive with the right tools.

Attend Parenting Classes

Parenting classes are by far one of the best resources you have. Here, you will learn everything necessary to make decisions about health and your own well-being, as well as preparing for your child. The resources are phenomenal.

Create a Routine

Create a routine that you stick with, including routine sleep, work, periods of exercise, downtime, and time for family or friends. Make sure you are focused on eating, sleeping, and getting enough sunlight to support your body’s needs. Be gentle with yourself - progress should be your goal. Not perfection.

Set Personal Limits

Do not push yourself to the point of being overwhelmed physically or emotionally. Simply give yourself limits and be okay with them. If you are tired, it is okay to stay home. Do not try to do everything possible with every minute of your day.

Budget Accordingly

Create a budget for yourself. Instead of trying to buy everything you need, consider starting early by putting aside a bit of money, looking for savings opportunities, and preparing for the future. Setting a budget allows you to stay within your means and provides peace of mind.

Find Support

Find support where you can. If someone cannot be supportive of your needs, step out of their life for right now. Turn to old friends, family members you trust, and professionals for one-on-one support.

Take It One Day at a Time

This is an incredible time of your life. There are so many challenges and opportunities ahead, but it is also best to focus on just right now. Take it one day at a time, and even just one hour at a time when you need a break.

Willow Womens Center offers free parenting classes and mentoring designed to give you all of the knowledge and confidence you need right now. Now is the ideal time to make an appointment with our team to learn how we can offer you support as a single and pregnant woman.