As a new mom, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and overwhelm. While there are plenty of resources out there to help you prepare for parenthood, there are some things that no one really tells you about being a new mom. Here are the top 10 things that might come as a surprise to you:
- You’ll be tired – like, really tired: It’s no secret that newborns require a lot of care and attention, but what no one tells you is just how tired you’ll be. Your baby will probably wake up every few hours to eat, and you’ll be up with them. This means you’ll be getting a lot less sleep than you’re used to, which can be tough to adjust to.
- Your body will go through some changes: Pregnancy and childbirth can take a toll on your body, and it’s common to experience physical changes after giving birth. This might include things like abdominal separation, incontinence, or changes in your breasts. These changes can be temporary, but it’s important to take care of yourself and give your body time to heal.
- You might feel emotional: It’s normal to experience a mix of emotions after giving birth, including happiness, sadness, and anxiety. It’s important to give yourself permission to feel these emotions and to seek support if you need it.
- You might feel pressure to “do it all”: As a new mom, you might feel pressure to do everything “right” and to be the perfect parent. It’s important to remember that there’s no such thing as a perfect parent, and it’s okay to ask for help and to prioritize your own well-being.
- Breastfeeding might be harder than you think: While breastfeeding can be a wonderful bonding experience, it can also be tough. It’s not uncommon to experience challenges, such as low milk supply, painful latch, or difficulty breastfeeding in public. It’s important to be patient with yourself and to seek support if you need it.
- You might feel like you’re in a time warp: The days can feel long and the weeks can feel short when you’re a new mom. It can be tough to find time for yourself and to keep track of what day it is. It’s important to be patient with yourself and to remember that this is just a temporary phase.
- Your relationship with your partner might change: Having a baby can change your relationship with your partner in ways you might not expect. It’s important to communicate with your partner and to make time for each other, even if it’s just a few minutes each day.
- You might feel isolated: Being a new mom can be isolating, especially if you’re home with your baby all day. It’s important to make an effort to connect with other moms, whether it’s through online groups, local support groups, or simply by getting out of the house for a walk.
- Your baby might not be “perfect”: It’s natural to want your baby to be healthy and happy, but it’s important to remember that every baby is different. It’s okay if your baby doesn’t sleep through the night, or if they have colic, or if they have a lot of needs. It’s all part of the process.
- You might not feel like yourself: It can take time to adjust to your new role as a mom, and you might feel like you’re not quite yourself. It’s important to be patient with yourself and to give yourself time to adjust.
In conclusion, being a new mom can be tough, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. It’s important to give yourself permission to feel a range of emotions,
