In the excitement of preparing for your baby’s arrival, it can be easy to forget about your own needs in life post-birth.
At Raveco Medical, our experienced OB/GYNs can help you focus on your postpartum needs as part of your labor and delivery plan. Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, we prioritize your pregnancy and postpartum health to ensure you have what you need for a successful recovery.
Here are 5 tips for preparing for life after the birth of your baby:
The foremost thing you need to remember about life post-birth is that perfection is a myth. Don’t set yourself up for perceived failures right out of the gate by setting your expectations too high.
Remember that life, especially as a new parent, is messy and can seem overwhelming. Be open to the highs and lows of caring for a new baby and don’t strive for perfection.
Keep in mind that your baby will only be a baby for so long, so take time to cherish even the messiest moments without self-criticism. Do what you can, and let that be good enough.
It’s also important that you set realistic expectations about your body after childbirth. Don’t expect to instantly bounce back to your pre-baby shape. Appreciate what your body has done over the last nine months, and realize that time, exercise, and self-care can get your body back in shape.
One of the biggest challenges parents face in life with a new baby is the lack of sleep. In the months before you deliver, be sure to take every opportunity to nap and get the rest your body needs.
After birth, make sure to take the same approach to rest. Sleep when your baby sleeps, even if it means some household chores won’t get done.
Be sure to ask for support from your partner, family, and friends if you’re not getting enough restful sleep, so that you can be physically, emotionally, and mentally ready to care for your baby.
Bringing home a new baby can also bring chaos into your house — with loved ones wanting to drop in to meet the newest family member at all hours of the day.
While it may seem selfish to some, it’s important that you set clear boundaries with everyone outside of your household about visiting, and stick to them.
Also, don’t be shy about limiting visitors or asking loved ones to wash their hands before holding the baby.
With all the changes going on in your house and your life, it can be easy to forget to care for you. However, you wouldn’t let your baby go hungry, so you need to take on the same principles for yourself.
Try to follow a well-balanced diet, especially if you’re breastfeeding. If you find you can’t keep up with planning or making meals, enlist some support from friends and family who can help.
You can also take some time to prepare meals that freeze well while your baby naps, so you can easily reheat them later in the week.
Caring for a new baby can take a toll on your health and your relationship with your partner. While it can be difficult for parents to leave a new baby in the care of others, it’s important that you prioritize some downtime into your schedule.
Plan regular date nights or other activities that get you out of the house, even as your baby grows, to keep yourself physically and mentally healthy and your relationship strong.
If you’re expecting and need reliable obstetrics care, call the Raveco Medical office nearest to you today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online.
