Acute illness

Why did this happen?

Becoming very poorly when you become a mum can be a scary and confusing experience. It can be a real shock when things don’t go to plan or how we expected. It can be frightening to feel loss of control over the situation and our bodies. Add to that the worry of being separated from your baby and how you might cope once you get home. If you were very unwell during your pregnancy, childbirth or soon after, we’re here for you and support is available.

We understand that after all the planning; the birth plans, the antenatal classes, preparing for your baby, it can feel like nothing has happened the way you expected.

Co-Founder Jenn described her experience of acute illness following the birth of her son as like life as she knew it had been hit by a wrecking ball. It left her feeling lost, confused, and suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

If you would like to access specialist professional support and help following your experience, you can find a list of organisations here.

Here to help you

Our community will connect you to others with a shared experience, so you can come together and share your stories. We hold online socials so you can speak with those who understand what you’ve been through.

Some of the difficulties following acute illness can be:

  • Fatigue, exhaustion or loss of muscle strength

  • Depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder

  • Separation from your baby and family

  • Difficulty sleeping

  • Feelings of isolation

  • Anger and frustration

If you are feeling any of these things, please do reach out for support. We will help you to find the right information and professionals to help you move forwards. You’re not alone. It can feel isolating if you’re in a friendship or social group with other mothers who had a straightforward experience of pregnancy and childbirth. Sometimes it means all the difference to know someone who understands.