A few short but useful tips for all new moms

Childbirth is certainly one of the most important moments in every mother’s life, and the birth of a child is undoubtedly a turning point for parents.

From the very beginning, constant care is needed so that the baby has everything necessary for proper and healthy development. That’s why caring parents do everything to provide perfect conditions for their child – writes the portal Biti roditelj.

However, for new parents, having their first child can be very stressful, as it represents a completely new situation in life – for the first time they have to care for another life, which carries the greatest responsibility. Later, with the second and every subsequent child, everything becomes easier thanks to the experience gained.

Below you’ll find some useful tips if you’re about to become a mom for the first time and need as much information as possible to fulfill your parental role and this most important life task in the best possible way.

Caring for your baby starts from the very first hours after birth

Many women expecting their first baby fear going to the maternity hospital. However, this worry is unfounded because there is always a team of specialists on duty – gynecologists, midwives, and pediatricians working 24/7, so you will always have someone to rely on during childbirth. Hospital staff must wear clean and recognizable medical uniforms for your safety. These uniforms are mandatory in medical facilities for identifying staff and, of course, for better hygiene.

The preparation and delivery process will be handled by professional medical staff, and in some maternity hospitals, the father-to-be can be present as support during birth. Unfortunately, currently, the number of such facilities is very small, and having the father at the birth in Serbia is still quite a privilege, even though we live in the 21st century.

The length of stay in the hospital depends on the type of delivery – whether it was vaginal or a cesarean section. If everything goes well and the baby is completely healthy, you’ll have the opportunity to start caring for your child right after birth.

Expect to change your lifestyle habits after childbirth

The needs of every baby will make you drastically change the lifestyle you had before. It will take at least a few months to learn your baby’s behavior and adjust to it.

In the first few months of life, the baby will probably cry for quite long periods, and sometimes it may seem like it lasts almost the whole day. Keep in mind that colic is the main cause of their crying, and it usually happens in the late afternoon or at night. Also, newborns cry when they’re hungry, and at first, they need to be fed every two hours, day and night. Later, as their digestive system matures, the period between meals will increase. Over time, you’ll learn your baby’s rhythm and align your rest time with the periods when the baby is calm and sleeping.

Colic usually goes away after the fourth month, so the first three months are key to keeping your sleep somewhat stable. On the other hand, you’re very lucky if your baby sleeps most of the day in the first months and wakes only to feed.

After the first few months, your child will gradually get into a routine and form stable habits regarding feeding and sleeping, making it easier for you to plan around them.

At first, the excitement after birth lasts, and someone will always be around to help. However, when things settle down and people get used to the new situation, you’ll find yourself alone with the baby more often. It’s best to choose a hobby or occasional work from home to spend your time more meaningfully.

Also, meeting friends and family will be good for social contact and adult conversation.

Prepare your home for the baby’s arrival

First of all, be ready to buy a huge number of diapers and get used to frequent changes – it might feel awkward at first, but you’ll get used to it. It’s recommended to get a changing table with space for the baby to lie down and keep diapers and creams close at hand.

Of course, a crib is a must. Baby clothes, hygiene products, and baby cosmetics are also essential.

One of the first investments when the baby arrives is a stroller. Think carefully about your needs, how you’ll use it, and the space for storage. Size, shape, and folding ability are very important, especially for travel.

It’s also necessary to secure all potentially dangerous parts of your home by covering sharp edges as soon as possible. Babies grow quickly, and before you know it, they’ll start crawling and walking – then it’s most important that your space is safe.

Fresh and clean air is necessary for everyone, especially children in the early stages of development. Make sure the baby’s space is free from tobacco smoke and strong odors. With today’s air pollution, airing out the space often isn’t enough, so air purifiers are a great solution.

Don’t renovate the apartment before the baby arrives, don’t buy new furniture, and especially don’t paint, because the chemicals in paints can release fumes for months afterward and could harm the baby. It’s important that the space is functional – decorating can wait until the baby is older.

The arrival of a baby is the most beautiful moment in any parent’s life. Naturally, it brings many changes to your habits and lifestyle. Also, be ready to adapt your home for the new family member. We hope this text provided some useful information if you’re expecting your first baby – and that you’ll be able to apply it.