Updated: February 10, 2016
Originally Published: November 28, 2015
Amidst the endless sea of pregnancy and parenting books, blogs, and websites, you’ll find a myriad of “Newborn 101” advice for expectant mothers. Sleep whenever your baby sleeps. Breastfeed 8 to 12 times a day. Accept every offer of help. Stock your freezer ahead of your due date. Don’t attempt sleep training with a newborn. The list seems never-ending.
However, no amount of reading, whether it’s from books, blogs, podcasts, or videos, can truly prepare you for the reality of life with a newborn—especially for first-time parents. It feels like joining an elite club with an intense initiation process, and it doesn’t matter how many frozen meals you have on hand or how many baby clothes you’ve purchased; the experience will be unlike anything you’ve known.
It’s a tough truth to share with friends entering motherhood for the first time. So, as more of my friends take the plunge into parenthood, I’ve compiled some straightforward advice that you won’t find in those countless resources—honest tips from a mom who has navigated the newborn stage (twice).
- Prepare for Tears: Stock up on tissues, because you’ll likely shed quite a few—perhaps not as many as your baby, but close! Hormonal shifts can send your emotions into overdrive, and you may find yourself crying over the smallest things. Rest assured, this phase will pass.
- Ditch the Cloth Diapers for Now: Even if you love their eco-friendly benefits, newborns and cloth diapers aren’t a great mix. You’ll soon discover newborn poop is a whole new level of messy, and the last thing you’ll want to do as a new parent is wash diapers daily. Save them for when your baby is a bit older.
- Invest in Quality Nursing Pads: In those first few weeks, your milk might let down at the most unexpected moments—like when you hear a random sound. Be ready!
- Change Diapers on the Changing Pad: Trust me, your newborn will love to surprise you during diaper changes, so save yourself the mess and stick to the designated changing area.
- Take Care of Yourself: Make time to wash your hair or at least enjoy a shower. A hot shower can feel rejuvenating, so strapping your little one into a bouncy seat while you freshen up can work wonders.
- Get Outside Daily: Even if you’re not feeling your best, stepping outside—even for just a quick walk—can uplift your spirits. Ditch the bathrobe and put on something that makes you feel human again.
- Limit Your Reading: It’s time to put down those parenting books and websites. You’ve done enough research already; too much information can lead to confusion. Embrace your new reality without the noise.
- Indulge If You Want: Go ahead and enjoy a drink if you feel like it. Contrary to what some may advise, a little alcohol can be a nice escape during those challenging postpartum moments.
- Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help: While it’s great to accept offers for meals or chores, don’t shy away from asking for specific things when you need them. People want to help, so let them know what you need.
- Take Breaks: BC (Before Children), a quick trip to the grocery store might seem mundane. But as a new parent, those moments alone can feel like a mini-vacation.
- Stay Present: This may seem counterintuitive when you’re knee-deep in newborn chaos, but try not to rush through these early weeks. They may be tough, but time flies, and you’ll soon find yourself reminiscing about these days.
Remember, it’s okay to take a step back, freshen up, and step outside for a bit. Embrace the journey ahead, and when you’re ready to learn more about fertility options, consider checking out this resource for further insights into home insemination.
Summary
New parenthood is a challenging yet rewarding journey. Embrace the emotions, prioritize self-care, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Take breaks and enjoy those fleeting moments with your newborn, as they grow up faster than you can imagine.