While the birth of the Royal baby has brought much attention in the media to the Royal couple, they are of course new parents going through many of the joys and struggles that all new parents experience. Having a baby is wonderful but getting through the early months can be a testing time for any couple.
- Sleep deprivation makes you tired, irritable and less tolerant. Be kind to each other. Be realistic about what can be achieved in those first few months.
- Keep talking to your partner. Be open about your experiences both the pleasures and the pain. Don’t be afraid to be honest about any conflicting feelings.
- Support each other to give your partner some time off. Try to do something that will revitalise you – whether that is catching up on some sleep, taking some exercise or meeting a friend for coffee or a drink and don’t judge what each other does with their time out.
- Have clear boundaries with family and friends. Ask for help when you need it but don’t be afraid to say no when prolonged visiting becomes too much. Remember you are the parents now, take advice but make your own decisions.
- Stay connected to your partner. Create time for yourselves as a couple, time to talk and time to reconnect through sex when that can be resumed. In the meantime hugs and cuddles are important.
- Remember no one gets it right all of the time.