Parenthood - 0-3 months

Coming back to earth.

After all the excitement and euphoria of the birth, what follows can feel rather anti-climatic. Partly as a result of a huge upheaval in hormones, many women feel weepy and down for a few days. You may also feel drained, flat and thoroughly exhausted.

Then, of course, you've got to contend with all the friends and relatives who want to know what's happened and can't wait to see your new arrival. Despite their well-meaning calls and visits, this is a time for you, mum and your baby to be alone. You need time to bond as a family, as well as catching up on sleep when you can.

Of course, visitors can be useful. An extra pair of hands can give you time to have a shower, check your inbox, and they're usually happy to help with the washing up if needed.

Still on the emotional rollercoaster?

Coping with the demands of a newborn and adjusting to your new roles as parents can be daunting. An initial short lived period of baby blues is very common, but another, more serious condition can develop at any time during the first few months. Post Natal Depression (PND) affects one in ten new mothers, with symptoms similar to other forms of depression. It can also affect you, so try to talk about your feelings together, regularly. That way you'll both be aware of any ongoing negative emotions that could be a sign of needing help.

Getting that work/ life balance right

Whether you've taken one or two weeks paternity leave or simply some holiday, you'll soon have to contend with going back to work. At first it'll be hard to leave your baby and exhausted partner for the world of projects and deadlines. But however much you want to be at home with them, work is also important, as, like most families you probably rely on a regular monthly income.

Learning to juggle the two can be a struggle at times, but you'll soon get into a routine.

If you are used to working long hours, try and do a little less. It will do wonders for your family life as well as your health and sanity! And if you have worries and concerns about work or any aspect of your new role as a father, it's important to talk to your partner rather than keeping your feelings bottled up.