Welcoming a new life into your home is a magical time. You’ve waited your whole pregnancy to meet your newest family member and now they’re here. You likely have had so many sweet moments since bringing the baby home. Those baby snuggles when they fall asleep on your chest are really something dreams are made of!
With the joy and wonder, comes some stress and sleepless nights too. Caring for your little one can be scary. All of a sudden you are learning and growing alongside a tiny, helpless baby. And, at the same time, you’re healing from delivery.
Hopefully, you’ve also had lots of family and friends come over wanting to see the baby too. However, it can feel like everybody is focused on caring for the baby and you don’t have time for your needs. In this period of life, you have to make sure to prioritize and not lose sight of yourself. Keep reading for tips on how to take care of yourself after the baby’s arrival.
1. Get Comfortable
You don’t need to be uncomfortable and try to win beauty pageants right after you give birth. Try to wear things that are convenient and comfortable for this new stage of life. Loose yoga pants or sweatpants may feel good as your body heals. And there is no shame in wearing your maternity undies while on maternity leave. Maternity bras that open for easy feeding and wireless bras can bring comfort to swelling breasts too.
Create a space that has all your essentials for baby care and momma care within reach. A bassinet, diaper caddy, burp rags, and paci is a great start for your little one. For you, have your remotes, water bottle, nursing pillow and favorite blanket at the ready. You might stash a few snacks nearby too. Getting up and down constantly can be a challenge, especially in the first couple days of healing.
2. Accept Help
It can be hard to ask for help. But this is a time when you should let your village in. You have a long road ahead and loved ones want to be there for you. Chances are, they also remember that time in their life and what they needed then too. If someone offers to hold the baby so you can take a nap or shower, accept it. It’s OK to also be clear with your needs too.
Often people want to “help out” but really just want to hold the baby. If they ask what you need, it’s OK to ask if they could pick up your grocery order. Doing dishes, washing bottles up, and doing some laundry can also be wonderful assistance. While being open to help is good for you, it’s also important to set boundaries. When you are peopled out, you can say, “Thank you, but we need some time alone tonight. If you want to send a pizza that would be so appreciated though!”
3. Feed Yourself
Speaking of pizza, don’t forget to feed yourself! You end up in a version of motherhood Groundhog’s Day with a newborn at home — feed, change diaper, nap, repeat. It’s easy to get so focused on caring for your baby that you forget to do the same for yourself. Make sure to give yourself that same treatment.Your body has just gone through a massive trauma.
Growing life and giving birth takes its toll and you need time to heal and recover. Part of that is making sure to have a healthy diet. Nutrition and hydration are an important part of your recovery journey. If you’re breastfeeding, this is even more paramount because you’re still expending your body for your child. Focus on protein, vegetables, fruits, and healthy carbs as well as drinking plenty of water.
4. Go Outside
Make time every day to get outside. Feeling the sun hit your face and breeze in your hair can help ground and center you. It can help take you off that loop of the repeating routine that is newborn life. As your doctor allows, start to walk a little too. This can be good for both your physical, social, and mental health.
If you’re experiencing postpartum anxiety or depression, getting outside can help too. You can use this time for some alone time if you’d like. Or, it’s perfectly fine to take your baby with you on short trips. If you’re feeling a bit isolated in your new mom bubble, invite a friend out with you. A walk and talk with a loved one can be a bright spot in your day.
5. Rest
This might seem like an obvious tip, but be sure to rest. If you’re a new mom reading this, please don’t yell at the screen. You probably are thinking, “duh! I’d love to sleep but the baby isn’t.” Sleep is so important for your healing and physical and emotional well-being though. Try to nap when the baby naps. Even those short 30 minutes can do wonders for you.
If possible, take turns with your partner or care team on night feedings too. That can let you tag team sleeping. This way, it’s not all on one person or, worse yet, that you both are up constantly and exhausted. See the tip above as well about accepting help. If your parents or friends offer to watch your kiddo so you can sleep, take it!
Above all, be kind to yourself and give yourself grace. This is a new and wonderful experience for you. And if it’s not your first child, it’s the first time you’ve been a mom to this many kids at once. Remember the old adage, it’s a marathon and not a sprint. Caring for yourself along the way helps you be well for your family for the long haul.
