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Becoming a mother for the first time is a miraculous and life-altering experience, but that doesn’t mean that it will be easy. While motherhood may seem like a faraway concept for many, you probably have friends and relatives who are just starting out on this exciting journey, and it would be helpful to have some perspective on what they are going through. Here in this article, we have discussed some pointers all new moms should be aware of before stepping into the new phase of life. Read on!
1. Things May Not Go As Planned
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It’s really devastating when things don’t go as planned, and with motherhood, you never know what is coming your way. From sleepless nights to colic problems, every child comes with surprises you are yet to acquaint yourself with, so keep your fingers crossed!
2. You May Not Bond With Your Baby Right Away
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It might take some time to form a strong bond with your baby. We’ve all heard the tales of the divine bliss that overcomes a new mother the minute her baby is delivered, but this isn’t always the case. Some mothers said holding their newborns did not feel like they were the same person growing in their wombs, and that is perfectly fine. Like all relationships, it takes time to grow a strong bond.
3. Breastfeeding Is Not A Bed Of Roses
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Many people stress the significance of nursing, and you might be shocked at how strongly they feel about it. However, there are better solutions for everyone. Many moms choose to bottle feed, while others are comfortable breastfeeding. It is totally up to you what you decide depending on your convenience.
4. Ask For Help
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You might have read all the baby books you could find and even have a faint idea about taking care of little ones, but the picture shifts dramatically when you have to do it on your own for days without sleep and with the exhaustion and hormones piling on you. This is when you must keep all your ego and hesitation at bay and take all the help you need. Taking assistance for caring for your baby doesn’t make you a bad mother, but a responsible one.
5. Give Yourself Time
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Do not assume that your pre-pregnancy mind (or wardrobe) will return to you when your child is born. About six months after giving birth, a woman’s body and hormones will start to return to normal. So don’t feel bad if you shift from XS to XL in months.
6. It’s Okay To Feel Sorry For Yourself
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Being a new mother may be challenging, and sometimes what you need is a good cry. Crying your heart out may be the last resort, but it is surprisingly effective. There are moments when you have no choice but to shed tears with the person you care about. Having a good cry every now and again is perfectly normal, and while it may not help your baby get back to sleep, it will make you feel better.
7. Don’t Assume
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You shouldn’t assume that your path to motherhood will be the same as everyone else’s. Your baby can start crawling on a different week than the precise week mentioned in the baby book. If your baby is perfectly healthy, and you’re doing a great job as a parent.
8. Avoid Comparisons
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You shouldn’t expect your partner or other people to be around you just because your best friend’s hubby is always around for bath time. Everyone’s situation is different, and they have additional responsibilities to fulfill. If you need help with a particular thing, ask beforehand or change the timetable accordingly.
9. Follow Your Guts
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Trust your instincts even if you don’t think they’ve evolved yet. A new mother should do what seems right for her and her baby, regardless of your many suggestions; if you feel something is right for her baby, it usually is. And also, if something isn’t working for your baby, don’t let anyone shame you into changing it.
Being a mother is awakening the infinite powers in you. How else would you walk straight out of a major surgery and be expected to take care of a little one who is totally dependent on you? Even though motherhood is glorified worldwide, it is okay if you have not figured it out yet on your own. Everyone learns how to care for their baby at their own pace, and everyone turns out fine. It’s essential to avoid pushing yourself and taking care of your health. So, would you like to add anything to our list? Let us know in the comments section!
