Bringing Home Baby

What new moms need to know about taking care of themselves- and their newborn.

Congratulations! You just had your first baby, and you're heading home. With plenty of diapers and a pediatrician on board, you're all set, right? In fact, you'll find the transition into motherhood is both rewarding and challenging. Here are some things to keep in mind along the way.

A Healthy Start
According to Kristin Williams, M.D., an OB/GYN on the medical staff at Baylor Medical Center at Waxahachie, it takes a few weeks for a new mom to heal after delivery; over-the-counter pain relievers can help with any lingering discomfort.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least 12 months, and the nurses at Baylor Waxahachie can help you get started by helping you through the process and answering questions.

"New moms sometimes are concerned they aren't making enough milk for their baby," Dr. Williams says, "but the initial fluid, called colostrum, supplies all the nutrients the baby needs. The breast milk comes in a couple days later." New moms should continue taking their prenatal vitamins, she adds, so they get all the nutrients they need too.

Once you're home, someone will be sleeping like a baby-but it won't be you. "Newborns will be feeding every few hours, and that leads to sleep deprivation," Dr. Williams says. So, if your baby is taking a nap, you should do the same.

New mothers also may experience the "baby blues." Initially, this could be caused by fatigue, discomfort or the feeling that the birth experience didn't live up to expectations.

"In the first weeks, after the euphoria of the birth subsides, it's normal and OK for the mother to experience feelings of sadness," Dr. Williams says. The baby blues should ease with time and sleep, but if feelings continue or become overwhelming, call your doctor.

Give Yourself A Break
Don't worry about being a "perfect" mother. After the baby is a few months old, you will have gained confidence in your parenting skills. "You need time and experience to learn," Dr. Williams says. "After all, your baby wasn't born with an instruction manual."

She emphasizes that it's OK to ask questions of your health care provider, and recommends leaning on family and friends for help and emotional support. When the frustration starts to mount, do something for yourself: take a walk, try yoga, arrange a "date" with your spouse or join a new moms' support group.

Whether it's the first tooth or first haircut, don't forget to document your baby's special moments. By the time your baby is a year old, you'll be checking off milestones like a pro. And you may want to have a baby all over again.

By Deborah Paddison

Baylor Waxahachie offers education classes for new parents, including Basics of Baby Care. To register, call 1-800-4BAYLOR.