Trust Your Instincts as a New Parent: A Personal Journey

As a pregnancy and baby teacher, I often hear new parents say:

"I just had a feeling something wasn’t right."

That feeling? It’s real. And it matters far more than we often give it credit for.

In this blog, I want to share a very personal story about a time I didn’t fully trust my instincts as a new mother. This experience taught me one of the most important lessons in parenting: trust yourself.

The Time I Didn’t Trust My Instincts — And Wish I Had

Like so many first-time mums, I second-guessed myself. I wish I hadn't.

When my son was born prematurely, I had a nagging feeling that something wasn’t right. During his first 24 hours, after every feed, he got sick. It wasn’t just a little; it was thick, yellow vomit that smelled awful.

I expressed my concerns to the midwives several times throughout the day. Each time, they reassured me that babies often spit up after feeding. They told me it was probably nothing to worry about.

I felt like I was overreacting—just another anxious new mum seeing problems where there weren’t any. But inside, my gut was shouting that this wasn’t normal.

Eventually, after asking for help all day, I had to actively chase them to bring in a doctor.

The moment they examined him, everything changed. I was right. He was very unwell and needed urgent care in NICU. Later, he was transferred to a specialist hospital in London for advanced treatment.

Thankfully, he recovered well. But that experience taught me a crucial lesson in motherhood: trust your instincts.

What Is Maternal Instinct?

Maternal instinct is often described as an inbuilt intuition that helps mothers care for and protect their babies. It’s more than just a nice idea. It's a powerful combination of:

• Biological responses

• Hormonal changes

• Close observation

• Deep emotional connection

  
  

In pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood, your instincts act as your early warning system. You may not always explain why something feels off, but you know it does.

Why It’s Hard to Trust Your Instincts

Despite the power of our instincts, many parents, especially mothers, struggle to trust them. Why does this happen?

Information Overload

There’s so much conflicting advice online, in books, and from well-meaning friends and family. It can be overwhelming.

Fear of Being Wrong

Nobody wants to feel like they’re overreacting or wasting a professional’s time. This fear can silence our instincts.

Cultural Expectations

New parents are often told to "trust the experts" and doubt their own judgment. This pressure can be hard to navigate.

Lack of Experience

Especially with your first baby, everything feels new and uncertain. You may hesitate because you’re unsure.

The result? We often push down that little voice inside us—the very voice we should be listening to.

Trusting Your Instincts During Pregnancy

Your instinctive feelings often start during pregnancy. You might feel:

• Unsure about a medical intervention or test

• Anxious about something that others dismiss

• Drawn to a particular type of birth preparation (hypnobirthing, pregnancy yoga, antenatal classes, etc.)

• Protective over your choices for your baby’s birth and care

  
  

It’s okay to listen to those feelings.

Of course, it’s important to work with your healthcare team and consider professional advice, but your instincts are part of the decision-making process. You are your baby’s best advocate—even before they are born.

Trusting Your Instincts as a New Parent

When your baby arrives, your instincts continue to guide you in various ways:

• Noticing small changes in your baby’s behavior

• Sensing when something isn’t quite right

• Choosing the feeding or sleep approach that works best for your baby

• Deciding when to seek medical advice

  
  

In my experience, once I learned to listen to that inner voice, parenting became less about fear and more about confidence.

When Should You Seek Help?

While instinct is powerful, never hesitate to seek professional advice if something feels wrong. Here are some situations where you should always check:

• Baby feeding poorly or not waking for feeds

• Unusual sleepiness or lethargy

• Breathing difficulties

• High or persistent fevers

• Any sudden changes in behavior or health

  
  

Healthcare professionals are there to support you. You should never feel like you’re being a nuisance. You know your baby best.

How I Help Parents Build Confidence in Their Instincts

One reason I offer antenatal classes, pregnancy yoga, baby massage, and baby yoga is to help parents feel empowered. The more knowledge, tools, and support you have, the easier it becomes to trust yourself.

Whether you’re preparing for birth or navigating those early weeks with your newborn, my classes provide:

• Up-to-date information

• Practical techniques

• Emotional support

• A safe space to ask questions and share concerns

  
  

Because every parent deserves to feel confident, calm, and connected to their instincts.

You Are the Expert on Your Baby

If you’re pregnant or holding your newborn as you read this, please remember:

You are not overreacting. You are not paranoid. You are not being difficult.

You are your baby’s expert. Your instincts are real. They’re worth listening to.

If you ever need support on your journey through pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood, I’m here to help.

Looking for pregnancy classes, birth preparation, or baby classes in West Malling, Kent?

Find My Courses