Well done!You made it through labor.You're home and wondering how to get through the next few weeks with a baby.It's normal to feel overwhelmed during this phase, but we've compiled a list of top tips for you.These suggestions can help you through a very special time in your baby's life.
Step 1: Take pain killers, rest, and make doctor's appointments.
It's easy to focus on your baby without taking care of yourself.Take over-the-counter pain killers if you are having pains.Don't lift things other than your baby if you're recovering from a C-section.If you have questions before 6 weeks after delivery, you can call your doctor or nurse hotline.
Step 2: Eat small healthy meals throughout the day.
If you find it hard to sit down at meal times, try to eat 5 smaller meals during the day instead of 3 big ones.You can get the nutrition and energy you need by eating foods that are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.If you're breastfeeding, your doctor will probably recommend that you keep taking your pre-natal vitamins.It's harder to get high-quality rest if you drink and eat alcohol.You can fill your pantry with easy-to-prep snacks and meals.You can eat pre-cut veggies instead of chips.
Step 3: Babies eat a lot.
In the first month, your baby will regain some of their birth weight.Every few hours is when your baby will want to nurse.A newborn takes between 16 and 24 fluid ounces of breast milk or formula in a 24 hour period.Are you struggling with breastfeeding?Call a consultant who can help you with different positions for the baby.If you're using bottles, keep your clean equipment in an easy-to-reach spot so feeding your baby is a snap.You should be prepared for spit up.After your baby eats, place a burp pad or cloth under them to catch the mess and keep them upright for 30 minutes.It might be helpful to pat your baby's back.
Step 4: Don't force yourself or your baby into a schedule just yet.
You've probably been told to feed and sleep on a schedule.Newborns need round the clock care and that can be great for older babies.Trying to follow a strict schedule can put extra pressure on you when you should try to take things easy.It's possible to use a baby tracking app.You can enter your baby's sleep habits and feeding times to see how much sleep they get and whether or not they're eating enough.
Step 5: When your baby sleeps, lay down.
Newborns don't always sleep in one session.You can catch naps, but you won't be getting long chunks of sleep.Your baby is still small and needs to wake up frequently for food so don't worry about trying to stick to a sleep schedule.Ask if someone will hold the baby while you take a quick nap.You'll get some much-needed rest when you cuddle a newborn.
Step 6: Don't go out and have everything you need at home.
It can be difficult to leave the house to get things for a newborn.Get things delivered, ask your partner to go out, and see if friends can bring you things you need.It's a great opportunity for friends to help out and bring meals.If you don't feel like being disturbed, you can invite them in so they can meet the baby.You don't have to get up if you put baby supplies and snacks in easy-to-reach places.
Step 7: Change your baby's diaper as soon as possible to prevent diaper rash.
You should stock up on cloth diapering supplies or disposable diapers and wipes because your baby will go through a lot of diapers.When changing your baby's diaper, hold onto them and set them on a flat surface.Before you change your baby's diaper, wipe it clean and remove the old one.Don't forget to wash your hands.Change of clothes, diaper rash cream, and a trash can could be put at your diaper-changing station.Look into diaper services if you are using cloth diapers.They can pick up used diapers, wash them, and drop them off.
Step 8: Every day you should give your baby a quick wipe and bath.
You can wash it in warm soapy water.It can be used to wash your baby's head, face, and bottom.To rinse off the soap, wipe them with a wet cloth.To give your baby a bath, just hold them in a baby bathtub with warm water and wash them with a soft cloth.Water can get into your baby's eyes if you hold onto them all the time.When you give your baby a daily wipe, start with the face, then move to the head and finish at the bottom so you don't spread germs to their face.You don't want your baby to get cold if you give them a bath in a warm room.
Step 9: It's a good idea to walk with your baby or rocking them.
If you want to be able to move around easily while comforting your crying baby, strap them into a snug-fitting front baby carrier.The baby might even fall asleep if you get close.It's easy to wear your baby when you're getting things done around the house, but don't do it around sharp objects.Is your baby still crying?Rub their back, check their diaper, and see if they're hungry.
Step 10: Don't try to do everything and adjust your standards.
Newborns are a lot of work.Don't make long to-do lists because things can wait or ask other people to help.To make things simpler, focus on small tasks.Ask your friends or family to bring you food or clean up when they visit.Visitors would love to be asked how they can help you.
Step 11: Take out personal time to relax.
Even if you don't have a lot of time, taking a few minutes to shower, read a book, or listen to a show can make you feel better.A partner or friend can look after the baby.New mothers need self-care.If you need some extra time to yourself or you're struggling to get through the first month with a baby, don't feel guilty.
Step 12: Take photos, cuddle, and remind yourself to enjoy this time.
People have told you that the newborn phase will fly by.Take photos and videos of your baby to remember when they were small and find joy in the little things.Are you guilty of just cuddling up with your baby?Don't!Even if your baby is crying, they are most secure when you're near.It's important to remind yourself that you're doing a good job.The learning curve is steep, but you and your baby are getting to know each other.
Step 13: You don't have to be alone if you talk to your support network.
It's easy to feel isolated when you're focused on baby, but remember that people are there for you!Spending time with friends and family is more important than catching up on the phone.You can join a birth group to talk with other parents.Limit social gatherings if they wear you out.If friends want to hang out with you and the baby, you should tell them that you've had a lot of visitors and need to wait a few days.
Step 14: It's normal for a newborn to have ups and downs.
You are sleep-deprived, recovering physically, and mentally drained.If you're constantly depressed, talk to your doctor.Communication is important if you have a partner.Let them know what support you need, whether it's holding the baby so you can make a phone call or picking up dinner.Communication lines should be open.Talking with a new-mom support group is one of the things your doctor might recommend.