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Late -
Pregnancy
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Finding A Labor Coach Finding a labor coach probably won't be difficult. Not all women choose their partners for the job; you can ask a good friend or a relative. A woman who has given birth using the method you have chosen is an excellent choice. She understands your feelings and can identify closely with your experience.
If you can't think of someone, discuss it with your doctor. She may suggest other single mothers who might volunteer to coach you during labor.
Other Sources for Labor Coaches
Professional labor coaches are available. Some members of Doulas of North America, an organization of women who help new mothers, are trained labor coaches.
Going Home From The Hospital
If you're a single mother without a partner, going home from the hospital may seem overwhelming at first. You'll be fine if you plan ahead and enlist a little help.
A new baby is an incredible challenge in any situation. You may need more support from family and friends because you will have total responsibility for your new baby. Ask for their help 1 If you feel you can't ask others for their time, consider hiring someone to stay with you at night for the first couple of weeks until you get on your feet.
Your Unusual Situation
Today, being a single mother isn't that unusual-many mothers are divorced, widowed or unmarried. Women of all ages have made the same decision you have. Some people may treat you differently; others won't care.
Some women choose donor insemination to conceive a child.
This can create unusual situations; however, families today are different than they were in the past. Many families are "unusual" now. Many children don't have a complete set of parents or grandparents, even in the closest family units. In these situations, an older family friend can be just as loving as a grandparent. Encourage older friends to take an active part in your child's life. Support groups for single parents can also be a valuable source of information and help. Ask your doctor for the names of groups in your area.
As a single parent, you do need an alternative childcare plan in case you become ill or there is an emergency. Plan ahead for this. Ask a family member or close friend if he or she can be called upon to help out in case this happens. Providing for this event should give you peace of mind.
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