From the moment, you announce you are pregnant you will get advice flown at you from all directions. With only your best interests at heart everyone will offer advice. What I reckon is the most sensible thing to do is smile, listen patiently, and thank your friends for their advice. Then do what your own gut tells you is the right thing.
Whilst putting the worlds to right with my friends last month (obviously whilst at the same time inhaling our takeaway), we came up with some real mum tips:
Everyone will offer advice, but it’s up to you whether to take it or leave it.
You have to do what works for your family. No two babies are the same and you can’t find all the answers written down. A mother’s intuition is a powerful thing.
Babies cry. It doesn’t mean you are a bad mum.
Small babies aren’t capable of manipulation, so if your baby is crying, it’s because your baby needs you. He/she is trying to tell you something—listen to them.
Make it through the first eight weeks —just survive. It will get better, we promise.
Find your own parenting style. Just because your friend swears by one method doesn’t mean it’s right for you.
Showers are overrated. Naps are few and far between. Spend your extra hour accordingly.
Give yourself a couple weeks to recover, what you have gone through during pregnancy and labour requires physical, mental and emotional healing time. Well wishes can wait, you probably could do without the added pressure of guests in the first few weeks whilst you’re learning how to be a parent.
Remember the experts who write these baby bibles do not know you or your baby.
Comparing your baby’s ability and agility to others is not terribly helpful. Milestones will happen. Regular visits to your health care provider in the first year will help you know if there’s something to be genuinely concerned about.
You may have strange mood swings. You can expect irritation, sadness, and fear. It doesn’t mean you are mad, it is just your hormones at play.
For a while your lower back and core abdominal muscles may be weaker than they used to be. Weight loss isn’t immediate. Nine months up, nine months down (or maybe even longer).
When your baby does something cute or funny, jot it down. You might think you’ll remember everything, but it’s impossible!
Don’t be afraid to go with your gut instinct when it comes to making sure your baby gets what he/she needs. If you think your baby needs to be seen by the doctor, but your family disagree, stand your ground it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Reach out to other mums. Sharing your woes with someone who’s in the same place in her life can make even the darkest days seem a little bit brighter.
Most of all, believe in yourself, you are doing an amazing job. Take it steady and remember each and everyone of us are winging it.
Love and best wishes,
Laura