OBGYNs, mothers themselves, offer their wisdom for new moms

Bringing a new baby home from the hospital can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Take comfort in knowing that many new moms have the same experience. Although there is no way to fully prepare to be a mom to a newborn, our San Antonio OBGYNs (and mothers) offer you their wisdom for new moms.

Our advice for the first few weeks with your baby

During the first few weeks with your baby, you and your baby are getting to know each other. Your baby does not have a feeding or sleeping schedule, and you are likely recovering from the delivery. Go slowly, heal, and care for yourself as you care for your baby.

Here are some bits of wisdom for new moms that may help you in those early weeks while you and your newborn are getting to know each other at home.

• Ask for and accept help. People want to help when you have a new baby, especially when they’ve already been where you are now. Meals, errands, housekeeping, laundry or holding the baby while you rest or take a walk are all easy ways people can help and give you a little break.
• The converse of this is also true. If you have had enough people in your house, or have family members that make you feel anxious, it’s okay to decline help. Set boundaries that work for you.
• Trust your instincts. You know your baby better than anyone else. You get to determine the best way to care for your baby, and if something does not seem right, ask your OBGYN or pediatrician.
• Remind yourself it’s all a phase. When your baby is up at night or has reflux, remember it is just a stage and won’t last forever. Before you know it, your baby will sleep through the night and keep milk down.
• Take a little time for yourself. Short breaks to walk outside, do light exercise, take a bath, or read a book can restore your energy and clear your head.

A lot of women have a favorite age of child-rearing. For some, it’s the infant stage; for others, it’s when their babies are older. You may be more fond of the toddler stage or think school age is the most fun. But remember this important piece of wisdom for new moms: It’s okay to find the newborn stage hard. The long nights and sore nipples may wear on you. That’s okay. You are still a great mom, taking excellent care of your baby.

Don’t play the comparison game. It’s easy to look at the other moms around you and compare parenting skills and styles. Don’t do it. You’re doing what is best for you and your baby, so keep it up.

And here’s our most important piece of wisdom for new moms: Give yourself grace. You’re in all new territory and just learning. You’ve got this.

Learn more wisdom for new moms at Legacy Women’s Health

Our San Antonio OBGYNs have more wisdom to share and are ready to provide advice for the first few weeks with your baby. Contact Legacy Women’s Health with questions or for an appointment.