Newly pregnant & in need of advice Post Reply

[6weekstoday]

I'm 6 weeks pregnant and whilst I am really happy about it, I am also highly emotional (very normal I am sure).

Assuming all goes well (something I am very nervous about) this will be my first baby and today I am feeling hugely overwhelmed. I run my own business but it's only recently established so not yet financially sustainable. I also freelance but have put so much time into my business, I have't got a lot of freelance work on. I am starting to panic about how I will keep my business going, how I can find freelance work over the coming months (particularly with all the other challenges pregnancy brings) and if I don't find enough, how this will effect my state maternity allowance. I've thought about trying to find a part-time job but, unless it's only short-term, I feel a little dishonest doing this knowing I'll be off in a few months.

My husband is freelance too and I am also worried that my lack of earning potential will put a huge pressure on him. Does anyone have any thoughts on how they, as freelancers or small business owners have managed to hold themselves together and give pregnancy the attention it really needs. Any tips on how to plan ahead and feel slightly more in control that I am now would be very much appreciated.

Thanks so much in advance!

[Teddersmum]

I am not freelance so can't offer any advice there but I did feel worried about my career too and how I would handle work, especially as I felt so awful until about 14 weeks. However, once I got over that things went back to normal and people treated me as normal too. I guess pregnancy is everywhere and colleagues didn't bat an eyelid really until I became the size of a house and was waddling around the office at 37 weeks! I felt great too after the initial three months, although did find myself going to bed earlier. Sorry not very helpful but anxiety is completely normal, especially at this stage. Good luck with your pregnancy.

[CatrinTait]

Hi,

Congratulations on the pregnancy. This is a wonderful time and remember to enjoy it as life will change a lot in just under 8 months.
Firstly don't panic. Its not good for you or the baby. You have plenty of time to plan.
Secondly I think you really need to sit down with your husband and go through figures. What you need to live on and what potentially your husband brings in and if there is a shortfall. Also look to see what benefits you may be entitled to eg maternity allowance and Child benefit. Although not much, they can help.

Save as much as possible. I can't stress that enough. Don't buy too much baby gear beforehand- you will be bought a lot when the baby arrives (and possibly offered lots from friends). For the essentials try Nearly New Sales as you can get some bargains saving you a fortune.

I think you need to decide what will happen to your business after the baby is here. Will you hire someone to help? How much maternity leave do you want to take? You have 10 keep in touch days you can take to keep the business ticking over (for which you can receive payment for as well).

Maybe start allocating your time to you business and freelancing and be strict about it. You will then be able to put 100% of your attention to each.

And as the other poster said - after the first 12 weeks your energy levels will start to go back to normal.

[6weekstoday]

Thank you both so much for your kind, considered replies and understanding. I really appreciate you taking the time. Sorry for delayed response.

I am feeling much stronger than I was 2 weeks ago - the early pregnancy anxiety is fading and my emotions feel more balanced too. It does also help to know what I am feeling is normal.

My husband and I have been discussing finances since my panic and it's been really helpful. I didn't know about the keep in touch days you mention CatrinTait and I will look into that.

Once again, thank you very much.