Let me begin first by congratulating my sis-in-law who recently gave birth to her first baby this week. Having being there for her during her maternity stories, hospital concerns and first time mom jitters became my incentive for writing this post. How soon have I too forgotten the cravings, anxiety and emotional ups and downs I had experienced during my pre and post pregnancy stages, that no books and/or prenatal classes had prepared me for.
So if you are planing or expecting your first child, this post is for you…here’s the top items that “No One Tells You Before and After Giving Birth”
1. Why don’t I want to have sex anymore? That’ll soon pass. Remember, there’s more to a sexual relationship than intercourse. Share your needs and concerns with your partner in an open and loving way. If sex is difficult, unappealing or off-limits, try cuddling, kissing or massage.
2. Why do I still look pregnant after I gave birth 3 days ago? It takes a while for your uterus to go back to its usual form and it may take event longer for your belly and waist to go back to its size 4. I am sure you might’ve heard that Breastfeeding is the best diet for losing weight, not only is it a nutritional factor for your newborn but its a great way to lose weight.
3. Why is my newborn an odd shade of yellow? A common condition in newborns, jaundice refers to the yellow color of the skin and whites of the eyes caused by excess bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is produced by the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Normally, bilirubin passes through the liver and is excreted as bile through the intestines. Jaundice occurs when bilirubin builds up faster than a newborn’s liver can break it down and pass it from the body.
4. Am I a bad mommy for sending my newborn to the hospital’s nursery? You might now want your baby sleeping with you in your room – Don’t feel guilty if you decide to have your baby sleep in the nursery at the hospital. You too need your rest. If the option is there then take it, you will have enough time at home to bond with your baby.
5. Why is breastfeeding so damn hard? As a brestfeeding mom, this had to have been the hardest thing I ever had to do. If you decide to be a breastfeeding mommy (and its ok if you decide not to) talk to a lacattion consultant or visit kellymom.com for research based recommendations. If breastfeeding hurts a lot, something isn’t right. It may be that a tiny adjustment in the baby’s latch will make a vast difference. Significant pain should signal you to get help pronto. After getting over a few hurdles I breastfeed for 8 months, so kudos to me as well as to you if you decide and stick to it.
6. Everyone is yapping in your ear about being a parent – Simple say thanks and move on, not one child is the same as the next. Just follow your instincts. That’s all the advice you will every need.