Becoming a mum can be an incredibly anxious time. Adjusting to the added sense of responsibility and looking after your own recovery is a lot to take on. It’s normal for new mums to have worries and concerns, but it’s important to remember that everyone has these feelings as a first-time parent.
Hopefully, some of these tips will help ease your worries and allow you to focus on enjoying life with your newborn.
Be patient
The postnatal stage is demanding. It’s important to be patient and kind with yourself and your baby. This is an adjustment period for everyone involved and it can be all too easy to get frustrated with yourself and each other. Postpartum depression impacts around 1 in 10 women, so remember to take care of yourself during this period and seek extra help if needed.
Crying is normal
Hearing your baby crying is never pleasant as a parent, but it’s completely normal. Infants cry for many reasons, but it’s not always easy to tell which. You’ll learn to soothe them and meet their needs as you both grow into family life and form a deeper connection. Staying calm is key because getting frustrated may only make things worse.
Trust your maternal instincts
You’ve brought new life into the world, now it’s time to rely on your maternal instincts. These are held so intrinsically within you, you just need to know how to harness them. It may not come naturally at first, but you’ve absolutely got what it takes to be a great mum!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Coping with life as a new mum can be draining. It’s more than okay to ask for help from friends, family and loved ones. You’re not admitting defeat, and it’s certainly not a sign of weakness. You deserve every bit of help you can get.
Keep in touch with your doctor
Complications can arise with your health or your baby’s health, so you should keep an eye out for any warning signs. Seeking medical assistance as early as possible can make a significant difference when it comes to treatment and recovery. Any complications caused by the actions or negligence of medical staff may mean you’re able to claim compensation.
Try not to compare
It’s all too easy to compare your experience of motherhood with others, but try not to if you can. There are so many different ways of doing things and each baby develops at their own pace, so comparison does little good, if any. Focus on yourself and your baby – you’ll both get to where you want to be with time.
Avoid co-sleeping at first
Co-sleeping is not recommended for the first 6-12 months after birth. It’s risky because you’re not in control of your body while asleep and you could all too easily roll over onto your baby or drop them. Let them sleep in a separate cot and get all the rest you deserve until they’re a bit older!
