As I embarked on my first pregnancy, I encountered the age-old clichés about motherhood, particularly concerning the newborn phase. New mothers often receive a barrage of warnings—they won’t sleep properly until the child is in kindergarten, they’ll neglect personal hygiene for days, and they’ll resort to consuming leftovers while juggling a demanding infant. While some of these predictions rang true, I discovered that many of the so-called “rules” about early motherhood were not set in stone. Here are three guidelines I chose to disregard, and you can too.
1. You Must Not Shower
This is perhaps the most frequently cited guideline regarding new motherhood—the idea that new moms forgo showers altogether. As I prepared for the arrival of my baby, I anticipated a future without daily showers or clean hair. I even packed my hospital bag with toiletries, albeit with skepticism about their actual usage. To my surprise, just two hours post-birth, I was able to enjoy a shower. The following day, while my baby underwent routine checks, I seized another opportunity to freshen up. Contrary to popular belief, I managed to maintain my grooming routine at home as well. While the showers were brief, they provided a much-needed moment of solitude amidst the chaos. Even if you have just a couple of minutes, you can find time to wash up, refresh, and face the day.
2. You Must Not Clean Your Home
Another commonly heard guideline is to let household chores slide during the early stages of motherhood. If cleaning is not your forte, and you have plenty of help, then by all means, let it go. However, if you’re like me and find the sight of disarray overwhelming, feel free to break out the cleaning supplies. Tidying up a bit during those early days provided me with a sense of control and normalcy amidst the upheaval a new baby brings. Simple tasks, like making the bed or doing the dishes, offered a small respite and made my home feel more welcoming. A clean environment can enhance your mental well-being, especially in those blurry early weeks.
3. You Must Not Exercise
This guideline does hold some merit, as engaging in physical activity postpartum should be approached with caution. Depending on various factors such as the type of birth you had and your pre-pregnancy fitness level, it’s crucial to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider before resuming exercise. For me, regular physical activity had always been a significant part of my life. After a few weeks of adjusting to motherhood, I found myself enjoying brisk walks and light gym sessions. Incorporating movement, even if it’s just a short workout while your baby naps, can help you reclaim a sense of self and stability. If exercise is important to you, don’t hesitate to find ways to integrate it into your routine.
These three “guidelines” that new moms often hear are not absolute. The journey of motherhood brings profound changes, and the most important principle is to embrace your individuality and prioritize what feels right for you. For more insights on the topic of home insemination and pregnancy, check out this excellent resource on artificial insemination.
Summary
Motherhood comes with its share of unsolicited advice, particularly during the newborn phase. However, many of these “rules” are flexible. Whether it’s making time for a shower, keeping your space tidy, or maintaining a fitness routine, you can choose what works best for you as you navigate this transformative period.