By 
My then-partner and I, like many expectant couples, enrolled in antenatal classes for two primary reasons: to gain knowledge on an unfamiliar topic and to connect with other local parents-to-be who would be around during the day with their newborns while others were occupied at work.
Female friendships hold a unique depth; my friends have been integral in my life, sharing both the ups and downs. Over time, as life’s circumstances change, these friendship circles often drift apart. When faced with the prospect of being home alone with a baby, knowing that loved ones are out from dawn until evening can feel overwhelming.
I felt a strong urge to make friends with other new moms, especially given the common warning about the isolation of new motherhood. However, it wasn’t easy. At our initial NCT class, I found myself searching the room for potential friends, aware that while we all shared the experiences of being local and expecting, that might not be enough to form lasting bonds quickly.
Opening up to other moms about the real challenges of early motherhood can be tough, especially when everyone seems to be putting on a brave face. I recall meeting with a fellow expectant mom, hoping to connect, only to feel disappointed when it didn’t click—it felt like a mismatched date.
Many moms have expressed similar experiences, and antenatal groups often split into smaller circles over time. Two of my closest mom friends came from NCT, and they’ve been invaluable, offering support, playdates, and endless WhatsApp conversations. Sharing laughs, tears, and even a sneaky drink during playdates has solidified our bond beyond just being “mom friends.” Like any meaningful friendship, these relationships are built on trust, honesty, and support. Just as with online dating, sometimes you need to keep searching to find your people.
