Pregnant mums turn to the internet for support

Times have certainly changed since our grandmothers gave birth to our mothers, who in turn gave birth to us. So quickly has the time passed that we now find both ourselves and our friends around us baby bound. Unlike in times past however, not everyone has babies at the same time, or even at all!

In the past girls would grow up together and most likely stay in the same towns and cities they were born in, before getting married and starting a family. New mothers relied on their parents, family and friends for support and advice. Nowadays, however, it is unlikely that women stay in their hometowns and live close to their families. As a result, new mothers are less likely to rely on their parents and family as they might have done previously, due to the distance involved. However, pregnant and new mothers still yearn for support, and many have turned to the internet to find it.

Expectant mothers, especially those pregnant for the first time, often have lots of questions. In the past these would have been easily fielded by mothers, grand-mothers or female friends. Now many women find themselves living in a new place without their close friends and family, but still burdened with unanswered questions and little personal support. Luckily some turn to the internet to find literally thousands of women in similar situations posting onto forums designed specifically for pregnant women and new parents. Quickly they have seen that they are not alone and have an entire online community to seek advice, guidance and get the support they need.

There is little doubt that these forums could never replace close family support, but many expectant mothers do find others in close proximity to where they live, often making friends as a result and these relationships which began on the internet continue well after their children are born. Nowhere is this more evident than when it comes to forums designed to match up women at the same stage of pregnancy. These women can find and share similar experiences, with other expectant mothers who will give birth around the same time.

After the babies are born they have instant playmates, and will often meet in groups - establishing similar closely knit communities as was seen in small villages and towns in the past. New mothers who previously worked full time, can connect with others in the same situation during a period which can be difficult for some.

New fathers can also benefit: they also can connect with other proud dads in parenting forums, as well as seeing added benefit of the mothers getting the support they so desire.

Online pregnancy forums are designed to give expectant mothers mutual support by bringing women together and creating many long term friendships, all the while preventing new mothers from feeling alone which can be devastating for families. Participating in parenting forums online also gives other added benefits such as hand-me-downs, baby product tips and other advice. But although forums will never take the place of familial support, they have proven vital for many women in creating a new kind of community.