Having your first child is one of the most memorable times of your life, with parents-to-be excitedly preparing for their new arrival. But what happens when this milestone period is spent during a nationwide lockdown?
Jasmine Kendal is due to give birth to her first child at the beginning of July. She says: “It’s been quite tough. Both myself and my partner were forced to self-isolate for four weeks at the beginning. Thankfully after this, new research issued showed that pregnancy puts you at no higher risk, so we’ve been able to go out for walks, which I’m grateful for.
“Lockdown has definitely made it much harder to get hold of baby essentials. We ordered our nursery furniture back in February, before lockdown, but received an email in April saying that it wouldn’t be delivered until August – a month after my due date! We can’t be too precious about the items we buy, and just have to just choose those that will arrive in time.”
However, baby essentials haven’t been the only worry for Jasmine and many other mum-to-be. A recent survey by breastfeeding brand, Lansinoh, has found that lockdown is leading to increased levels of anxiety and loneliness in new and expectant mums, due to not being able to spend this special time with friends or family.
70% of those surveyed have reported increased anxiety levels, whilst 60% have reported increased levels of loneliness. What’s more, 12% claim they haven’t left their home since lockdown began, with 26% only leaving their home once a week.
Jasmine continues: “I’ve felt quite anxious about the birth. Currently the rules mean that the father can’t stay for more than an hour after the baby’s birth, and once they’ve left the hospital, they can’t come back. That means that if I have any complications, my partner won’t be able to be with me.
“It also means I’m having to carefully prepare my hospital bag, because if I end up having to stay in hospital longer, my partner won’t be able to bring me any supplies. Thankfully the brand new Lansinoh hospital kit has been a life saver, as it has all of the essentials I’ll need – so I feel as prepared as I can be at this stage!
“I also feel quite bad, especially for my parents. It’s almost like I’m almost robbing them of being a part of my journey. There hasn’t been a baby born on my side of the family for almost 17 years, so my mum has been really excited about my pregnancy, but now she can’t fully be a part of it.
“We’ve had to instead send them progress pictures of us decorating the nursery, and keep in touch on FaceTime.
“I’ve also had to cancel my baby shower, which was meant to be taking place in a few weeks’ time. But I’m hoping we can recreate it virtually, or even at 2m apart outdoors if we’re allowed!”
However, it’s not all been bad. Jasmine adds: “At least with lockdown I’ve managed to save a fortune on maternity clothes!”
“I also keep reminding myself that, while I’m desperate to see my mum, in the grand scheme of things, this isn’t just protecting me and my unborn baby, it’s protecting everyone. It’s just not worth the risk.”
Lansinoh wants to help new mums reclaim this lost time and help them to celebrate being reunited with friends and family, once lockdown is lifted. To nominate a new mum for an extra special reunion celebration, visit https://lansinoh.co.uk/welcome-to-my-world-competition/
