For a new mom, everyone in the world will want to throw unsolicited advice at you. While the majority of people will mean well, motherhood affects people differently. What might be applicable to one situation could be totally different from another. Motherhood will affect people differently and the most important thing is that you’re following your maternal instincts. Here are some of the things you should know and expect as a new mom.
Listen to Your Instinct
It is important that you’re listening to your instincts. It will be tempting to go on the internet to look for a solution every time that you’re experiencing a challenge. If the baby is hungry, the logical thing to do would be to feed her. The books might say you have to wait for another two hours yet it is clear to see that the baby needs nursing. Your gut is always right most of the time and it is Mother Nature’s way of telling you that the baby needs attention.
Listen to the Cues
For the first week, the babies will communicate primarily through body language and crying. As time goes by, you start noticing different cues. Such cues will include reaching out with arms and legs, finger sucking and REMS. You can start paying close attention to cues even in the first week if you’re keen. You will be able to know what the baby is trying to communicate if you pay close attention.
Nursing Vs. Formula
There has been a raging debate on the two options. Whatever you opt for, it should not be a big deal as a lot of people would make of it. Not everyone will be comfortable when it comes to breastfeeding. Nursing is not a walk in the park and no amount of research will prepare you for it. That is why it is understandable if you decide to go for formula. You might also not produce enough breast milk and you’re looking for the best cooler for breastmilk. Make sure that you’re doing research on the different products that you will be buying so that they’re safe and healthy for the baby.
Nursing can be painful. You will either do it or you will not. Regardless of the decision, your baby will still grow up healthy and strong and will never question you why you opted for formula instead of nursing.
Don’t Try to the Perfect Mother
There is no perfection in motherhood. You’re bound to make a lot of mistakes which is perfectly normal, especially if you’re a new mother. What you can do is to be your best for your baby. The best you can do is to show your baby love and that is what that is required for the most part. Don’t hesitate to apologize in case you’ve done something wrong. You want to be a good role model to your kids and that doesn’t require that you’re perfect.
Make Time For Your Partner
It is easy to get carried away with your bundle of joy and forget there are other people in the house. As much as taking care of a young one can be overwhelming, you’ll still need to make time for your significant other. You don’t want them feeling neglected just because there is a new family member. You can schedule activities for the three of you so that he’s not feeling left out. Sometimes it is the things you say that could make a difference. You can remind them how much they’re special. Let them get involved with the nurture. Not everyone will be comfortable but you always know from the onset.
Take Time For Yourself
As much as taking care of the baby is the number one priority, you should not forget to take care of yourself. You need to be in good health as that will be good for the baby too. Make sure you’re eating well and taking enough rest. Don’t be afraid to ask for help whenever you feel like you’ve had too much. There will always be friends and family that are willing to offer assistance.
Conclusion
Being a new mom will come with a lot of excitement. There will be challenges along the way but it is crucial that you’re enjoying the journey. Kids grow up so fast and you’ll find yourself missing those moments when they were still toddlers and depended on you for their every need. It is a journey that is filled with ups and downs.
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