All Pregnancy Info

Undoubtedly as an expectant mother you’ve had no shortage on advice of things you should do to prepare for the arrival of your bundle of joy. You’re family, friends, and medical providers have given you a list of things that you should accomplish prior to going to the hospital. As a new mother myself I have found one area that nobody mentioned….what you will need for yourself after you get home. Here is a list of helpful things to do for yourself to help you survive your first few weeks as a new mom.

1. Have your fridge and freezer stocked with easy to prepare foods. Once the baby is here you’ll find that tasks previously easy for you have a new set of challenges. Cooking is one of those. Better yet, if a friend asks if there is anything you need or that they can do for your…have them bring a home cooked meal.

2. Don’t forget that your monthly friend (your period) will be returning with a vengeance after the baby arrives. Have all the necessary supplies you will need. Nothing is worse than having to make a Wal-Mart stop on your way home from the hospital.

3. Even though you are longing for your figure and the return of your normal wardrobe to return, it will take a while. Having a few things that are non-maternity but a size bigger than your pregnancy clothes will help you to feel more comfortable while you are transitioning.

4. If you have a husband or partner who will be helping you when you come home have a sleeping plan. My husband and I learned after 2 days of trying to alternate the nighttime feedings and feeling very sleep deprived that there were better ways of scheduling. We opted for longer shifts of sleep with one of us covering the nighttime hours so the other could sleep. We felt much better!

5. Arrange to have a few close friends or family members help you out for the first week. A few hours of time babysitting or an offer to run errands for you is the best gift anyone could give during the first few weeks.

6. If you are a busy body have some things around to entertain yourself. All the books tell you to sleep while the baby is sleeping but this is sometimes easier said than done. Indulging in a hobby such as reading, scrap booking, or even a good movie will allow you to relax and keep you from feeling overwhelmed.

7. Practice saying NO. A baby brings a lot excitement to family and friends. It is sometimes hard for them to remember that you are recovering and adjusting to your new role. As with anything, practice makes perfect. Practice your “no speech” before having to use it. Make sure express your appreciation for the fact that they care enough to…come visit, invite you out, volunteer to keep the baby, etc. but let them know that you are still adjusting to everything and need to say no.

8. Have an assortment of over the counter medications available for yourself. It is difficult to make a quick trip out with a newborn. It’s best to have the things you think you might need on hand.