We are Hannah & Daniel. Both work within Local Government and are parents to Lillian. We took the Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal classes in Norwich.
I experienced sickness and nausea during my first and second trimester which I found challenging. Once it eased, I was able to get back into exercise and eat the foods that I enjoyed (hello vegetables and salad!) which helped me feel like myself again.
Hospital in theatre. I was expecting it to feel sterile, but actually, the team made it feel warm and inviting.
Early on in pregnancy, I decided to elect for an abdominal birth. This allowed me to plan ahead, and with the help of HPHB, understand what to expect during and after the procedure. One of HPHBs tips is to create birth preferences, and this definitely helped us to ensure we noted everything we did and did not want. The most challenging was the recovery, but I was surprised how quickly I felt like myself again.
Breathing techniques 5/5
Paracetamol 5/5
Pure relief and joy. We chose not to find out the gender, so it was lovely to finally meet who I was growing all that time. We wished her a Happy Birthday before she snuggled into my chest and went straight back to sleep.
Breastfeeding I found difficult to begin with, but after visiting a local breastfeeding clinic I was supported in finding a position that worked for both of us. We also watched the breastfeeding videos back on the HPHB portal, especially around how to latch baby and placement.
Breastfeeding. The cluster feeds in the early days and weeks are challenging, especially when you’re trying to recover yourself, but I’m fortunate that we found a rhythm together.
The unknowns, especially as new parents and constantly reverting to Googling everything. My new mantra is that not all babies are the same (especially when it comes to sleep!).
Both of our proudest moments are watching the other become a parent. You see a completely different side to them that is beautiful to watch and it’s a feeling like no other.
We didn’t expect Lillian’s CMPA (Cows Milk Protein Allergy) diagnosis. After symptoms started to get a little worse, we trusted our gut and took Lillian to the GP who provided us with guidance on how to manage.
Not buying enough muslins before Lillian arrived. You can never have too many!
HPHB allowed us to connect with couples who are now our friends. During the early days, we shared tips in the WhatsApp group chat and now, we meet for a monthly coffee and catch up.
Frida mom high waisted C-section underwear.
Everyone will say it, but the toast and butter… It really is great!
A high chair with a newborn insert. We were able to have dinner together, without one of us needing to hold Lillian.
Right now, it’s a snot sucker.
Take advantage of the Golden Hour after giving birth. HPHB shared this tip during the course, and I’m so glad we had the time and space as a family of three before inviting the world in.
Free downloadable resources and weekly guides for your pregnancy.
Enter your postcode to find your nearest Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal classes
