Things You Need to Know as A New Mother

“Life will be full of ups and downs, it will be one tough ride. But your love for your child will be the anchor that will see you through it all”

The above quote, I think, beautifully summarizes what motherhood is all about. When a child is born a mother is born too. You step into one of the most beautiful phases of life. This journey throws surprises daily. You might have read many books on child care or you could have attended various classes, but trust me, there is nothing that will prepare you for motherhood.

Most of the books I read or the class I attended was about the do’s and don’ts of motherhood. No one ever told me about the challenges I will face as a new mother, thus, being prepared for them was not an option. From my experience, let me tell you some things, which might be able to prepare you a bit.

Milk Machine

When you are being discharged from the hospital and on the checkups, that follow, your pediatrician will stress on the point that the new born needs to be fed 2-2.5 hours. My daughter was a preemie so I was told, this is something I need to take a lot of care about. The nurse had told us to wake her up and feed even if she does not ask for milk.

I remember putting alarms and sleeping at night and waking her up to feed even though she was not interested. I was not able to exclusively breastfeed so each feeding session was for half an hour. I would feed her for 15 minutes and then supplement with formula. We were also not allowed to use bottles so had to feed her using a feeder cup (Medela adjustable reusable cup).

At the end of the day or more so the night I felt all I was doing was feeding her. Not to forget, I had to try and pump in between to increase supply. There is no sure shot way to determine their schedule and thus, all you feel like is a milk machine.

There is no sleep pattern

All books, Google and of course your doctor will tell you the number of hours they baby will sleep or rather should sleep. Each child is different and thus, do not compare and lose your sleep over it. The child will not force himself to be up. He will sleep as and when they want to and there is nothing you can do to set a schedule for a new born baby.

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You Cannot Spoil Them

You will get a lot of unsolicited advice on how you must not hold your baby too much. I beg to differ. This baby is too small to be spoilt. In fact, the more he is hugged by his mother, he will grow better. I remember when I used to put the baby to sleep in my arms or hug her, I was told, I will repent. She is 16 months now and sleeps on her own and will not sleep in my arms. I already miss it. You will get many chances of not spoiling them. Hug them, hold them and kiss them. After all, you waited for so long for them.

Fed Is Best

Undoubtedly, breast milk is the best and the most nutritious milk you can give to your baby. And it is free. Though everyone will make you believe it is the best thing to do and how easy it will be, breastfeeding is not simple for many. Be patient and be prepared. If you cannot feed exclusively, supplement with formula and not cow milk. Do not lose sleep how your child will have low immunity or will not be intelligent.

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The Poop

You will find changes in the poop color and pattern and please do not get hyper every time. It is normal for them. As long as the poop is not black or red, do not stress about it. They can poop a few times during the day or poop every alternate day. Don’t worry. This is all normal. Enjoy changing diapers.

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Farts and Burps are Good

When a new born drinks milk they tend to swallow a lot of air too. Thus, it is important for them to get rid of it either by farting or by burping. Massages, cycling and tummy time are some of the ways you can use to help them release the gas and be comfortable. Remember, a child gets very uncomfortable when they are not able to pass gas and can cry a lot.

Do Not Forget Yourself

Yes, you have just landed with a huge responsibility, but please do not ignore your health. You need to relax and destress before this new life gets on to you. Eat well, drink lots and lots of water and other healthy liquids like coconut water etc. and sleep when you can with the baby. Meeting guests and keeping the family happy is not the need of the hour. If you can manage, get a massage as this helps you in your recovery. Do not forget your body has gone through a lot during pregnancy and in child birth, be it a normal delivery or a c section. Thus, you must give it time to recoup by taking good care of yourself.

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Ask for Help

It is common to see that the mother loses all importance as soon as the baby arrives. No one is really bothered about them and most of the people say this is how it is now. Please don’t believe in this. You are still an important person and if not for anyone else for your baby. You might feel depressed and postpartum depression is common. Meet people, join support groups or talk to a doctor. Do not let this depression take a toll on you. Mummy, you need to be fit for your baby because no one else can take care of the little angel like you can.

Sleep Deprived

Sleep deprivation is the worst side effect of motherhood. It takes a toll on you mentally and physically. Thus, most of the things you are not able to do or go wrong are because of lack of sleep. Try and take power naps with the baby when you can.

You are Perfect

Everyone around you will compare you and your baby to others around. Comparing your child to another in the family or to that of a friend is the worst thing you will hear, but the most common. Most of the times these comments are negative. Just IGNORE them. You are a good mother and never ever doubt yourself. There is no one who gives certificates to perfect mothers, and even if they did, you will get one for sure.

Children do not come with a manual but they are beautiful. They will change daily and so will their habits. As a mother, be ready for change as these kids are very unpredictable. Each day will throw a surprise. Enjoy each moment and most of the times to ensure to retain your mental sanctity, ignore people around you, be it family or friends. You are the mother and you know the best!