Have you recently welcomed a new member to your little family?
Entering parenthood is an incredible experience incomparable to anything in life, but for a first-time parent, it’s also terrifying. Caring for a newborn means making huge lifestyle changes. Your baby crying is enough to start an internal panic, and you’ll wonder if you’re doing anything right.
If you feel like you don’t know what you’re doing, don’t worry. You’re not alone. That’s why we’ve created this guide for new parents.
Here are some things that all first-time parents need to know about caring for a baby.
1. All Babies Cry
Babies cry because it’s a way for them to communicate with their parents. Your baby may be trying to tell you they’re hungry or need a diaper change. Your baby may have colic, and some babies cry more than others.
As a first-time parent, persistent crying can take a hit at your self-esteem. If your baby is crying more than expected, don’t be too hard on yourself. Remember that you are not a bad parent.
2. Postpartum Blues Are Real
After giving birth, mothers often feel sad or empty, more so first-time moms. Women often experience baby blues a few days after giving birth. For most, it can last from 3 to 5 days.
However, if it worsens and lasts longer, you may have a case of postpartum depression. PPD is a mental health illness causing mood swings and feelings of hopelessness. Mothers with PPD often feel disconnected from their children.
To prevent PPD, visit your doctor and ask for an assessment. You can treat PPD with prescribed medicines or psychotherapy or join support groups.
3. Relationship Changes
Caring for your newborn will take up a lot of time, which means less quality time with your partner. After a day of nursing your newborn and changing nappies, you may feel too tired to greet your partner. Relationship changes can be one of the hardest parts of raising a newborn for a first-time dad or mom.
Priorities change, and first-time parents often find themselves fighting or growing apart. It’s crucial to remember that you’re in this together and that you should be working with each other. A newborn’s first year is a crucial time when everyone should bond.
Even if you’re divorced, both parents have a right to be with their children and a responsibility to take care of them. Check out these DCF approved parenting classes to learn about co-parenting while divorced.
4. You Can Ask For Help
When you become parents, no one expects you to know everything right away. Making mistakes doesn’t make you a bad parent to your child. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
Your doctor will teach you the basics, like how to hold your baby and the best sleeping position for them. Consult your parents or other relatives for help, especially if they’ve had experience caring for a newborn.
First-Time Parent: What Do You Need to Know?
As a first-time parent, you face new responsibilities and challenges in life. Feeling frustrated is normal, but don’t let this affect your relationship with your baby.
Parenting is hard, so don’t stop here! Check out our other blog posts for more great tips on caring for a newborn.
