From Birth To Home: Points To Think About When Having Your First Newborn

You have survived nine months of pregnancy, and who-knows how many hours of labor, and now you get to bring your child home. You’ve had so many months to prepare for even the most minute detail. Surely, you think, all will go as planned. Yet, there is always something not calculated in that comes up or that detail that you wish someone had prepared you for. Following you’ll find 7 things you should think about when having your first son or daughter.

Remember baggy clothes to wear home. All parents worry about how to keep baby comfy for her trip home, but many fail to plan properly for themselves. A brand new mommy’s body has just endured an impactful event. Expect that she will be sore and fragile for some time, and she will also carry some "baby weight." The chances of her body eventually regaining the pre-pregnancy appearance are small, and are worst right after childbirth. Naturally this is not necessarily a negative, it just has to do with the fact that your previous garments will not fit the same. So, bring loose, easy to put on, clothes that will be comfortable and comforting. You can allow yourself plenty of time to fit back into your favorite dress, so just don’t worry about that now.

Ask about your son or daughter’s first check-up appointment while you’re still in the hospital. The initial appointment will most likely be a week following delivery, but be certain you have jotted down exactly when.

Don’t be afraid to ask. You will have tons and tons of questions after the baby has been delivered. You may feel a little foolish to ask, but the hospital staff counts on you to ask questions. No matter how silly your worries may be, go ahead and ask. Keep in mind, it is wiser to learn and grow than to keep quiet and stay ignorant.

Don’t forget you’ll need to transport your child home securely with a baby seat. Put the baby seat in at home when you have lots of time to adjust it until it is properly installed. If you have doubts, check with the hospital or check with the local fire station. Generally, they will be happy to help you ensure your child's safety.

Be ready for an emotional rollercoaster. Absolutely, you will be overjoyed with your child. However, you might also be overwhelmed, drained, frustrated, easy to snap, needy, insecure, and frightened. That is what happens. Between the hormonal impacts taking place in your body and the momentous life-alteration happening in your life, it is not negative to experience many distinct emotions simultaneously. However, if depression and rage are too much or do not go away, call your doctor. Post-partum depression is an illness and needs to be handled as soon as possible.

Remember that you, the parent need sleep, too. Take power naps. On occasion, new moms and dads push themselves and want to use baby's nap time to catch up on all the chores. They think that the dishes have to be done and sleep is a luxury. But really, paper plates are ok, and getting sufficient rest is a requirement. You won’t be able to be a good parent if you are worn out to exhaustion. So, take advantage of your little one’s sleepiness, and put yourself down for a little sleep too.

Get a bouncy seat or swinging harness. Of all the useful baby products in the world, one of the most under appreciated is the bouncy seat. Say you want to clean up an immediate spill, or truly need to take a quick bath. A bouncy swing gives you those times, even while the baby is up and aware.

These are just a small selection of the unexpected stuff to prepare for when bringing your new child home. Ask friends and family members who are moms and dads what they wish someone had told them before they had their first son or daughter. And always, always, have faith in yourself. As long as your loved ones are safe, fed and healthy, anything more is a bonus!

Criss White is a professional author on baby and wedding, and parenting topics. For more original ideas or for baby shower supplies, check out these baby shower favors (http://www.bridalandweddingfavors.com/baby-shower.html). Note: If you think this article useful, you may share it on your website, e-zine, or in your newsletter as long as the credits and resource box remain unvaried and the hyperlinks are active.