Expectation and baby time

On this page you will find services for waiting periods and families with babies.

Waiting period and pregnancy

The waiting period for a child and the birth of a baby affect the life of the entire family. The waiting period is a joyful, but also a psychologically challenging and risky phase of life. The baby's health and well-being, as well as the relationship with the parents, develop already during pregnancy. The baby's development is also affected by the family's living situation and the stressors it faces.

Pregnancy is always a wonderful event and, especially for the mother of the baby to come, it is usually a transformative experience. Pregnancy and the waiting period are often accompanied by many unpleasant things, such as nausea, insomnia and fatigue. These are natural phenomena and are part of pregnancy. A healthy diet, exercise appropriate for pregnancy and sufficient rest can support coping during pregnancy. During pregnancy, the family has the opportunity to examine their own resources and coping, nutrition and substance use from a new perspective and make changes in a healthier direction.

If menstruation is missed and the pregnancy test is positive, contact the maternity clinic, where regular pregnancy monitoring and guidance will begin. At the clinic, public health nurse and doctor visits are carried out in accordance with the recommendations of the National Institute for Health and Welfare. The father or a support person is also welcome to attend the visits. The maternity clinic works closely with the maternity clinic of the maternity hospital.

The aim of the collaboration between professionals and parents is to strengthen the growth of the mother and father and to encourage the maintenance of the relationship. The support network and the need for support are discussed with the parents and, if necessary, the family can quickly receive the support and help they need. Sharing experiences during pregnancy with those in the same life situation helps to cope better mentally during pregnancy.

In the link below you will find information about baby development (MLL pages).

0-12 months Growth and development