Being a new mum is exhausting, overwhelming and downright life-changing - something you'll know all about if you've had your own little one.
And it is important that you, as a friend, tread carefully when it comes to what you say and even how often you call over to see a woman who has just given birth. To be sure you and Mum are still mates by the time Baby is a year old, make sure you say these ten things to her...
1. Do you want me to take your older children for a bit?
And don't take no as her first answer - she's probably just being polite!
2. You’re doing so well
Because she is. We’re all just technically winging it and there is no right or wrong way to parent.
3. Ignore unwanted advice
Sometimes it's hard to know one end from the other when everyone is giving you contradicting advice.
4. I’ve made you a lasagne - will I pop it into the freezer for you?
Actually, don't ask - just hand it to her!
5. Your baby is so CUTE
All babies are cute but that doesn’t make hearing it any less enjoyable!
6. She looks like you
Every mum wants their baby to look like them – unfortunately they usually look like Dad, for the first few weeks at least!
7. I know how you feel
And follow up with an embarrassing story about something you had to deal with when your baby was small – safety in numbers and all that!
8. Do you want to go for coffee?
New mums are exhausted and sometimes it can be a real effort trying to get out of the house. Entice them into the outdoors with promise of coffee.
9. I’ll empty the dishwasher for you
If you are over having a coo at Baby, do offer to empty the dishwasher for them or even hang the washing on the line – every little helps!
10. Text me if you want me to call over
No matter how close you are, don't just assume that it's ok to call in whenever it takes your fancy. Not only are they tired but they want to enjoy their new baby without people ringing the doorbell every five minutes.
