Hey new moms! Like most new moms, you probably are going into motherhood with expectations. You might expect to bounce back to your pre-baby body, get more sleep now that you’ve given birth, breastfeed for at least a year and love every minute of motherhood.
The truth is, though, your expectations may be slightly different once you have your newborn in your arms. In these first few weeks of motherhood and, let’s face it, throughout all of parenthood you’ll learn a lot more about yourself, your partner and your baby than you ever could imagine.
Becoming a mom is something that will change you. It’ll challenge you as you navigate what it means to have a child of your own, and you’ll have moments of pure bliss when you carefully look over your sleeping child’s face and watch as they grow.
There are hundreds of things that new moms need to know. Fortunately, most of those you’ll learn as you go. For now, here are a few things that new moms need to know to help you navigate parenthood.
Know That Your Plans Will Likely Change
This is one of those realizations you have to come to terms with when you become a new mom. These past nine months have been filled with preparation and planning for the arrival of your child. Most of your plans go out the window. Know that you are human, your partner is human, and your baby is human. People make mistakes, and there will be time for adjustment.
Your baby may not stick to a regular sleeping, feeding and changing routine. You might have trouble with milk production or bonding relax and know you’re not alone. Of course, you want to do everything right for your baby, but remind yourself that even though things aren’t going as planned, it doesn’t mean you’re not doing a good job.
Feed Your Baby in a Way That’s Best for You and Your Baby
You’ve probably heard that breastfeeding is best. Yes, your body produces the correct nutrients that your baby needs, and the milk can change to fight infection, help with a deficiency or give your newborn more proteins. That milk is specifically for that baby.
However, breastfeeding is a challenge. If it’s not working for you and your baby, it is okay to make the switch to formula. You can still be a wonderful mom and have a happy, healthy baby with a full belly. If you do decide to breastfeed and stick with it, that’s great, too. In the end, do what is best for you and your baby.
Rock That New Mom Glow
You’ve just spent nine months growing and expanding your body, so understand that you probably won’t snap right back to your pre-baby body! Now is a time for resting and making memories with your newborn. It will take your body a few months to adjust, especially with your hormones.
Focus on rocking your new mom glow. Show off that body that just produced a new life. Be thankful for your health and your baby’s health. All moms go through this, so show your body love and self-care.
Understand That Your Body Will Do Weird Things
Although you should appreciate your body, understand that weird things will happen with your post-birth body. The first time you have a bowel movement after giving birth will feel like when you gave birth if you did so naturally. It might feel like everything is about to rip out relax, it won’t.
You may also experience hemorrhoids after giving birth. Piles may be annoying but it`s something you can easily take care with a hemorrhoid spray. Sex will probably hurt. Your hair might fall out because of hormones. You may have some cramping. Your breasts may continue to grow with milk production. These are all normal!
Get Support
The first few months are a rollercoaster. You’ll be learning as you go with your baby, and sometimes it can be frustrating. A great way to get connected with other moms who understand what you’re going through is to find a support group, whether in-person or online, through social media. It’s a great resource and outlet for you.
If you need further support or are experiencing signs of postpartum depression, it’s time to seek a therapist or counselor. It’s common and treatable, and you deserve all of the help and support you can get during this time as a new mom.
Celebrate the Firsts
Document everything. You might think that you can remember what it felt like when you saw your baby smile for the first time or changed their first diaper, but you will likely forget. Take the time to document those moments. Later on, you can read what you wrote and reminisce on pictures and moments.
Keep a journal with you, and take a few minutes here and there to write down your thoughts and feelings. Celebrate all of the firsts. They’re only little for so long!
Rest as Much as Possible
Finally, get some rest. Being a mom is challenging work, and sleep deprivation is real during those first few months as a new mom. Try to sleep whenever your baby sleeps. Ask your partner or a trusted family member to watch your baby for a few hours while you take a nap.
Your body needs time to rest, too. That’s the best thing you can do for your body to heal. It’s also the best thing to do for your baby. Say yes when someone asks to bring over dinner. Say yes when a friend or family member offers to clean your home. Just get some rest!
Your Little One Is Lucky to Have You!
Moms, you’re doing a great job. Use these tips to make your new journey as a parent a little bit less stressful and a lot sweeter. Spend time with your baby and do what’s best for you and your family.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
Speak Your Mind