The changing face of Friendships

 
With pregnancy, old relationships can suddenly take on new meaning. Friendships are no exception to this rule. Feelings of social isolation can be quite common for both mother and father during pregnancy. Friends, typically those unfamiliar with pregnancy and birth, tend to distance themselves. This is due largely to their lack of education surrounding pregnancy and their uncertainty about how their friend's pregnancy and nearing parenthood will affect them.

Many couples combat these feelings of social isolation by reaching out to new people who are sharing similar experiences as themselves. Often pregnancy and birthing classes are ideal places to meet people experiencing the same feelings and situations. The mother and her partner can find comfort in developing a wider circle of friends whom share similar interests, values, and concerns.

It is not inevitable that old friendships will wither and fade, but it is understandable considering that pregnancy requires a complete reassessment of ones lifestyle and attitudes. It is reassuring however to know that while some friendships drift away, others will only become closer. Pregnancy is a great common ground that can bring people together and can create lifelong friendships.

Print this page