Congratulations, you're bringing home a baby! For first time mothers, this is a new adventure, unknown and uncharted territory. First time mothers have just been given a glimpse into the wonderful and amazing, challenging and tiring, world of being a parent. It's no secret that the first few weeks of having a baby can be very challenging. Here are a few things you need to know to keep your cool, and sanity.
Sleep every time you can: Forget the dishes, forget the cleaning, you have to make sure that you are taking every advantage of the opportunity to sleep. No point in spending the time that the baby is sleeping, cleaning. Sleep is just as important for the new mom as it is for the baby. Sleep when the baby sleeps.
Don't be shy, get some help: If you are lucky enough to have a few people in your life that have offered to help, don't be coy, take them up on the offer. I know that this can be hard to do especially for us independent gals, but let your pride go and get help when help is offered. The simple things like doing a load of laundry and cleaning the dishes can make a huge difference for you.
Eat well: Okay, so you're not eating for two anymore, but you must eat. Time flies when you're having fun, but don't forget to take a few moments to eat something. You don't want to add any more stress to your body. Make sure you eat as healthy as you can to make sure that your body stays in tip-top shape.
Beating those baby blues: It can be common for women to experience some form of baby blues or sadness, a few days after giving birth. There are varying degrees of severity, but it is very important to be honest and upfront with yourself and your family about what you are feeling. There is nothing wrong with the way you are feeling, and no one should be silenced or suffer alone. Note that breastfeeding has been proven to reduce the chances of having post-partum depression.
You don't have to grin and bear it: So you spent 24 hours in labor and now you have to deal with the constant influx of people that want to meet your new bundle of joy. On one hand, it's a beautiful thing to introduce your baby to the world, but on the other hand, you're not always in the best form. Everyone, including the grandparents will be eager to spend time with you and the new baby, so if you're not one for surprises, set some ground rules. If you don't want people showing up unexpected, you may want to ask them to call beforehand. This will ensure that you will be prepared for your visitors and it will alleviate any stress or anxiety.
There was once a girl under there: This is so important -- you must allow for time for you. Whatever made you who you are, whatever you enjoyed --you must remember that you are still that girl. Everyone needs some me time to recharge and rejuvenate their being. I know how hard it is to find the time. Try getting a babysitter or ask your in-laws. You can also enlist the help of your baby daddy by giving him task to watch the baby for 20 minutes while you take a warm bath.
Love and hugs.
o Bianca Carter is a certified lactation counselor (CLC), and founder of Bun in the Oven. For more information, give us a call at 601-6977 or visit us at the Harbour Bay Shopping Plaza, next to Starbucks. Follow us on Facebook at babybunintheoven, email us at info@babybunintheoven.com, visit us at www.babybunintheoven.com.
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