Becoming a new mom is the biggest emotional rush you will ever get.
You’re the most happy you’ve ever been the second your child comes out, only to be followed by bouts of sadness, anxiety, and fear as you realize all the responsibilities being a parent entails.
However, there are a few things almost every new mom spends countless hours worrying about that aren’t worth the sleepless nights- so here’s to adding a little more ZZZ’s and a little less stress.
- Struggling to Breastfeed
Not being able to nurse your baby with ease is probably one of the biggest new-mom stressors of all time.
But what many successful breastfeeding moms may have not told you is that breastfeeding can be challenging in the beginning for anyone.
One of the first things you should check is if your baby has a tongue tie because it can greatly affect their ability to get a proper latch.
But, no need to worry.
Le Leche League can help you with nursing tips and a pediatric dentist can correct a lip or tongue tie to make the journey a little smoother.
- Having to Take a Little “Me” Time
New moms and veteran moms alike feel an enormous sense of guilt when they feel they need a break.
Taking some time to catch up on a book you started before you were pregnant or going to the grocery store without having to shovel whatever you can into your cart before the baby’s screaming becomes unbearable is not selfish, and definitely doesn’t mean you don’t love your child.
Even if it’s taking a few moments to get some fresh air while your hubby gives little one some post-work snuggles can help you regroup and feel energized to take on yet another sleepless night.
- Feeling Down in the Dumps
Having postpartum blues, or “baby blues” as it is commonly referred to, is completely normal and happens to the best of us.
The American Pregnancy Association reports that 70-80% of moms will experience negative feelings in the fourth trimester.
This does not mean that it is not serious or that it should be ignored, but that it is nothing to panic over or feel self-conscious about.
If your negative feelings begin to interfere with daily life or become too much to bear alone you may have postpartum depression.
This is a serious condition that requires professional help. The substances Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a helpline 24/7 that can connect you with someone in your area who can help. The number is 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
- Peeing When You Don’t Mean To
Your post-baby body is going to be very different than your pre-baby body, inside and out.
One of those key differences is the pelvic floor muscles are wore out and don’t work the same as they once did.
This means that you may not be able to control your bladder and will have about the same control to hold your urine as your toddler.
No need to fret though, because with proper exercises you will be back to only using one pair of underwear in the day in no time.
- Your Baby Crying
Attending to your baby when they are in need is essential to raising a confident and stable child.
But here’s the kicker…
Your baby sometimes cries when they don’t need anything!
So if you changed your little one’s diaper, fed him, and have them in a comfortable environment-it’s okay to take a shower even if he is crying.
Granted you may sweat while simultaneously cleansing yourself, it is perfectly acceptable to get things you need to get done briefly while your little one tests their windpipes.
Everyone’s experience is different but you are not less of a mom for having a different path than all the well-meaning moms that have given you advice.
There will be plenty to panic over during your child’s life, but hopefully we have knocked a few off your list.
