10 advice for new mothers

10 tips every new mother should know

Yes, you’ve read parenting manuals and over-prepped to be a fabulous new mum. Almost every piece of literature you can get your hands on, you have devoured. But once that bundle is placed in your arms—everything that you have ever read dissolves. You’re left speechless…

1. Your life isn’t just yours anymore

The first statement is no shocker but it’s quite a load-full to grasp. Plenty of people tell you this but it does not sink in until the baby is here. You’ll realize what this phrase really means when you get there.

2. Plan for care way in advance

Your baby may be special but that doesn’t guarantee VIP treatment. Don’t assume that there will be a spot for your baby in day care – you’ll have to book way in advance.

It can sometimes take months to secure a spot. Also, plan with your mum or in-laws if you are going to take that route. They might be eager to see the newborn, but that does not mean they will want to take care of the baby full time. Not all parents want to be parents all over again. Depending on their age—they may not have the necessary energy or vigour to do so.

3. Your body will change

Your body will do unexpected things. Your crowning glory may even fall off in clumps and it will be scary—just be prepared for changes in your body.

4. Sleep deprivation

We don’t really have to elaborate on this one. You’ll just have to deal—but all the other joys of motherhood will definitely make this one worth it.

5. The stressful every-2-hour feeding sessions will not last forever

12 times in 24 hours—yes around the clock feeding! It may seem like your baby cannot get enough. Breastfeeding can be tiring and frustrating—but the stress will not last forever and the benefits will outweigh any frustration you may be feeling. Give it two months…

6. Your Relationship May Change

You can’t really devote so much time to each other now—there is a new focus, a new baby that demands almost all your attention. Say goodbye to romantic get-a-ways and candlelit dinners that happen on a whim. You got to plan for anything and everything. Spontaneity goes on vacation for now!

7. Financial Surprises

Unexpected expenses will creep up on you and pile on stealthily. Your baby may fall ill out of the blue, your little one may need vaccinations and so on. Just be prepared that you’ll need to spend more than originally planned.

8. Always Overpack

Carry more stuff than you think you may need for all those worse case scenarios. Be prepared for anything and everything. It is better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.

9. Find something that soothes your baby—fast

You need to discover what calms your baby and the faster you do it, the longer you can preserve your sanity. A blanky or pacifier won’t always work. It could be humming, rocking, singing, flinging or grinning that will put your babe at ease. Play around with different sounds and motions till you get it right.

10. You are not alone

Don’t ever, not for one moment, think that you are in this solo. Almost every new mother feels disoriented, lost or even depressed. Talk to someone when you’re feeling overwhelmed. There are your family, friends and even support groups out there.

Bonus Tip!

Remember not to kiss your baby too often, and we know you would want to kiss them every second. Your saliva may cause some rashes on the baby’s face. So try to prevent other people from kissing your baby too much as well.

Written by

Felicia Chin

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