The birth of the first child in a family is an anticipated event, often the cause for intense joy and bliss. It is also one of the so called “normative crises” in the human life cycle. Taking care of a child involves so many changes in the daily life of the couple that the new parents often feel overwhelmed and underprepared. 

What aspects of this transition should we actually prepare for in order to adapt in the most effective way possible? How does having a baby at home affect the intimate relationship between the parents?

The moment a family transitions from “both of us” to “the three of us” ( or “the four of us” for those gifted with twins) is crucial to the further healthy development of that family.  Sometimes the pressure to the family system is twofold – from the changing conditions inside; and from the outside world, as many times other family members (for example the grandmothers) what to be involved and impose their own way of doing things.

What is postnatal depression, why does it occur and how to recognise it before it inflicts permanent damage?

The birth of a child demands the adults to embrace brand new social roles. Sometimes the balance between being successful as a parent and retaining your own space can be hard to achieve, especially in the early months.