From Expectation to Reality: NCT’s New Report on Pregnancy, Birth and Early Parenthood

In this bonus episode of The MAMA Podcast, Heidi is joined by Joanna from NCT (National Childbirth Trust) to discuss their newly released report, From Expectation to Reality: Parents’ Experiences of New Life through Pregnancy, Birth and Early Parenthood.Drawing on the voices of 2,000 new and expectant parents across the UK, the report explores the emotional realities of pregnancy, concerns around safety and staffing, informed consent, birth rights, postnatal support, and the urgent need to tackle inequity within maternity care.

Together, Heidi and Joanna discuss:
• Why nearly half of parents felt more worried than excited during pregnancy
• The gap between a “positive” birth and feeling informed, supported or listened to
• Reports of pressure, coercion and inconsistent consent practices
• The impact of staffing shortages and service suspensions
• Racial discrimination, language barriers and access challenges
• What must change and how charities, professionals and parents can shape reform

Read the full NCT report here:
https://www.nct.org.uk/about-us/becoming-a-parent-report

If you’ve experienced challenges in pregnancy, birth or postnatal care, support is available.You can find more of our resources at: https://www.mamaacademy.org.uk/

If you'd like to support our work improving maternity safety and equity, you can make a one-time donation by texting:
‘MAMA05’ to 70085 to donate £5
‘MAMA10’ to 70085 to donate £10
‘MAMA50’ to 70085 to donate £50

Together, we can amplify parents’ voices and help shape safer, more equitable maternity care.