Why Every Mom Needs a Village, Before and After Baby Arrives

They say it takes a village to raise a child, but what about becoming a mother?

Whether you're weeks away from giving birth or deep in your fourth trimester, one thing’s clear: navigating pregnancy and new parenthood isn’t something anyone should have to do alone.

And while the idea of a village isn’t new, the shape it takes today has evolved and is still constantly evolving. Online and IRL, offering support in new, more inclusive ways.

But according to a recent Baby Dove survey, many first-time, expectant moms are feeling exactly that—unsupported, unprepared, and unsure where to turn.

In this article: 📝

The Support Gap Is Real

More than 6 in 10 first-time moms (62%) agree: women don’t receive enough support during pregnancy and childbirth.

That’s not just about medical care, it’s about emotional availability, community resources, and daily hands-on help.

And perhaps more surprisingly, half of those surveyed said they don’t have mom friends they feel comfortable turning to for advice or support.

In an age where we can Google anything, why do so many women still feel alone?

What Women Are Really Looking For

When we asked moms-to-be what would help them feel more ready for motherhood, the answers weren’t found in baby books or big-ticket items:

• 60% said “real talk from other moms”
• 56% wanted a checklist of what to buy or do
• 55% said a support group would help most

It’s not about grand gestures, it’s about small, consistent acts of care.

A text that says, “Thinking of you.”

A friend showing up to wash and fold onesies.

A friend restocking baby care essentials for that first bath-time.

A partner offering to prep bottles.

A doula answering your late-night questions without judgment.

This is the modern village. And it’s just as important as any product on your registry.

Who’s in the Village?

It’s not one-size-fits-all. For some, it’s family. For others, it’s a tight-knit friend group or an online community. And for many, it's a combination of:

• Partners or close friends – 69% of women said someone they have a personal relationship with would best support them during birth
• Doulas or professionals – 31% preferred expert guidance, especially in the delivery room
• Digital spaces – Over a third (35%) turn to social media or online platforms more often than family for advice

And then there are the brands, platforms, and tools designed to meet moms where they are, offering gentle, practical support that feels human, not prescriptive.

Baby Dove is one of them. Helping more moms access doulas and the care they deserve, from birth and beyond.

Building Your Own Support Network

If your “village” doesn’t exist yet, or looks a little different than expected, that’s okay.

You’re allowed to build it your way, one step at a time:

• Join a group that reflects your values, on Peanut or locally
• Create a short list of people you feel safe being honest with
• Use the tools designed to support you, from product checklists to doula directories
• Choose products that work as hard as you do (like gentle, dermatologist-tested essentials from Baby Dove)

You’re Not Meant to Do This Alone

There is no badge for doing motherhood solo.

There’s only strength in asking for help, in leaning on your people, and in welcoming support in all its forms.

Whether your village shows up with food, words, wisdom, or baby wipes, what matters is that it shows up.

Explore the Peanut x Baby Dove Nested Hub for checklists, product recs, doula resources, and real talk from fellow parents. You’ve got this.

Visit the Hub