What to expect after having your first baby is a question every soon-to-be mom asks. Unfortunately, with so many articles, books, and blogs out there on the subject, it can be hard to know which sources are accurate or worth reading. The purpose of this blog post is not only to answer what you should expect when expecting but also to provide information that will help make your transition into motherhood an easier one.
#1 The healing process
Your body will be through a lot, and it may take time to get back to normal. Depending on the type of birth you had, your recovery process after having your first baby will vary accordingly. If you’re giving birth naturally, slowly resume exercising with minimal weights, no more than three pounds, until all symptoms have vanished – which can take up to six weeks.
If you had a C-section avoid any heavy lifting for at least six weeks post-delivery; if it is possible to wean yourself off using your abdominal muscles, then do so slowly. Remember, no advice given here should take away from what the doctor has said regarding physical recovery time after having your first baby. It’s also important to be patient with yourself – for example, if you need some incontinence underwear to get through the first few weeks, then so be it! You deserve everything you need in order to feel comfortable and safe.
The most important thing to keep in mind when recovering from either method of childbirth is patience! Remember how hard you worked before getting pregnant; well, congratulations because now you get another reward: being able to look forward to starting over again with working out (and feeling good about it).
#2 Necessities to have in the nursery
With so many options available today, it can be hard to pick out what is most important when preparing the nursery for your first baby. Keep in mind that you will need at least three sets of sheets (one set on the crib and two sets as backups), receiving blankets (at least thirty or more)
You may want to consider getting an infant car seat with safety straps, although newborns do sleep better in their arms than any other device used for sleeping. Make sure these items are put together before the baby comes – this is an important task to have done, especially if you are planning on having additional children in the future.
It’s also a good idea to establish how much time can be spent with your first child by setting up regular playtimes and napping hours, which will help ease any feelings of being overwhelmed when becoming a new mommy for the very first time!
#3 How to stay positive during breastfeeding and the late nights
Finally, remember to take things one day at a time and find comfort in the fact that your baby will love you unconditionally no matter what mistakes are made or how tired mommy is!
Remember, not getting enough sleep can be a major factor when trying to adjust to motherhood. So while breastfeeding may seem like an intimidating task, it truly isn’t – as long as both parents know what they’re doing, then there should be no problems with this process.
However, if any complications arise such as soreness, pain during feeding times (don’t forget water intake), and so forth, then don’t hesitate on making contact with doctors for advice; never give up too early just because of fatigue or stress since these feelings typically go away within several days.
