The Village

Rebuilding the Postnatal Village: Why We Need It and Why It's Missing in Western Society

The saying "It takes a village to raise a child" captures the essence of communal support that was once central to raising a family. For centuries, new mothers and their babies were cared for by an entire community—a "postnatal village"—where relatives, neighbours, and friends played an active role in supporting the transition into parenthood. This network provided emotional, physical, and practical help, ensuring that both mother and child were nurtured in the crucial early months.

But in today’s Western society, this postnatal village often seems like a distant memory. New mothers frequently find themselves navigating the challenges of early parenthood in isolation, without the consistent support that was once a natural part of family life. Let's explore why this concept has faded and why it's more important than ever to rebuild it.

The Disappearance of the Postnatal Village

• Geography

   Modern life often requires people to move away from their hometowns for work or education. This geographic mobility, while offering opportunities, also means that many new parents are far from their extended family and long-time friends. Without these familiar faces nearby, building a new support network can be difficult and time-consuming, especially when the demands of a newborn are overwhelming.

• Culture Emphasises Independence

   Western culture places a strong emphasis on independence and self-reliance. This mindset can make it challenging for new parents to ask for help, even when they need it most. The pressure to "do it all" can lead to feelings of inadequacy and isolation, as parents struggle to meet the demands of parenthood without the traditional support systems that were once in place.

• Professional Support

   Unlike some cultures where postnatal care is built into the fabric of society, Western countries often lack comprehensive support systems for new parents. Maternity leave policies, access to affordable childcare, and postpartum care vary widely and are often insufficient. This lack of support places additional pressure on new parents to manage on their own.

• Digital Connections Replacing Physical Ones

   While social media and digital platforms have made it easier to connect with others, they cannot fully replace the benefits of face-to-face interactions. The "village" that now exists online lacks the hands-on, practical support that new parents need—someone to hold the baby while they rest, bring over a meal, or just to sit and listen.

Why We Need to Rebuild the Postnatal Village

• Emotional Support

   New parenthood is filled with highs and lows, and having a supportive community can make a world of difference. The presence of empathetic listeners who have been through similar experiences can help new parents feel understood and less alone.

• Practical Help

   In the early weeks and months, small tasks like cooking, cleaning, or watching the baby for a few hours can provide significant relief. A postnatal village offers practical help that allows new parents to focus on bonding with their baby and recovering from childbirth.

• Shared Knowledge

   Experienced parents within a community can offer valuable advice and share wisdom that is not always available in books or online. This sharing of knowledge can ease the anxieties of new parents and provide them with the confidence to care for their child.

• Reducing the Risk of Postpartum Depression

   Isolation and lack of support are significant risk factors for postpartum depression. A strong support network can help new parents feel more secure and capable, reducing the likelihood of depression and other mental health challenges.

• Creating a Sense of Belonging

   The feeling of being part of a community where everyone looks out for one another is incredibly powerful. Rebuilding the postnatal village fosters a sense of belonging, not just for the parents, but for the entire community, as they come together to support new life.

How Can We Rebuild the Postnatal Village?

• Community Initiatives

   Encouraging local communities to develop support groups, meal trains, and shared childcare arrangements can help recreate the sense of a postnatal village. These initiatives can be organised through community centres, places of worship, or even online platforms that connect local parents.

• Creating Safe Spaces for Connection

   Offering spaces where new parents can meet, share their experiences, and support each other is crucial. Baby yoga or massage classes, parent-and-baby groups, or even casual meetups in parks can foster the connections that are often missing.

• Normalising Asking for Help

   We need to shift the cultural narrative around asking for help, making it clear that it’s not a sign of weakness but a normal part of parenthood. When we encourage parents to reach out and accept support, we help reduce the stigma of doing it all alone.

• Using digital technology to enhance connection

   While digital connections can’t replace physical ones, they can complement them. Online communities can offer advice, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity. However, they should be seen as part of a broader support system that includes real-world interactions.

• Advocating for Better Policies

   Supporting policies that provide paid parental leave, affordable childcare, and accessible postpartum care can help create the conditions necessary for rebuilding the postnatal village on a societal level. Advocacy at local and national levels is key to driving these changes.

While the postnatal village may seem like a relic of the past, its principles are more relevant than ever. By recognising the importance of community support in the early stages of parenthood and taking active steps to rebuild these networks, we can ensure that new parents are not left to navigate this challenging time alone. The village can be brought back, providing the care and connection that every new parent and baby deserves.