Nowadays there is so much focus on your pregnancy. You track every second from the moment you see a positive sign on your pregnancy test. Everyone is following along, so excited for your new arrival. Which is good and exciting. But, then what happens is the baby arrives and all the focus is towards your newborn. Leaving you feeling alone and somewhat scared entering this new life you thought you had prepared for. But, until you start living it. You slowly start to realize how unpredictable this stage can be. I’m here to share with you a few tips I discovered along the way to help prepare you for your 4th trimester. So that, you can be physically and mentally prepared your new little one to arrive.
First off, plagiocephaly “aka” flat head syndrome. This is a very common problem in newborns. When I was a new mom, just being honest I had zero ideas this was even something that could occur until I was at one of my newborn’s well-check appointments. The pediatrician showed me how one side of my newborn’s head was much flatter than the other side. The pediatrician then suggested having my newborn start physical therapy. I recall being alarmed and thinking to myself, how I wish I could have prevented this.
Well, you can! One way is to purchase a flat head prevention pillow. This pillow will help prevent their head from flattening. Or even correct a flattened head. I saw great improvement after using this pillow. First and always get permission from your pediatrician before you implement this step. You can find these pillows in many places. I purchased mine from Amazon. Organic cotton baby pillow. Also, lots of tummy time is good too.
Breastfeeding, I will not go too much in-depth on this subject since this topic requires a whole blog post dedicated to its entirety. Here are a few things to help alleviate some of the pain associated with breastfeeding. Which, is something that came to me as a huge shock being unaware of how painful breastfeeding can be at times.
Breast Shells–these will allow air to get to your breast and promote healing. So, your breast aren’t right up against your bra.
APNO Cream-this multipurpose cream is a prescription you can obtain from your doctor. This cream works as an antifungal, which helps prevent thrush in you and your newborn. It also works to help heal your sore nipples.
Lanolin Nipple Cream– This cream is commonly used to soothe and protect sore nipples. No prescription is needed for this cream. Most hospitals will give it to you immediately after you deliver your baby. It’s safe for your baby, so you can apply it before and after your nursing session.
Breast Pads -Changing your breast pads frequently will assist with healing so your nipples are not constantly exposed to a moist environment. Which will aid in the healing process.
Always make sure your baby has a good latch. This is the most important factor when it comes to breastfeeding. I watched numerous youtube videos and met with a lactation consultant for help.
Do not say no to help that is offered. I made this mistake the first time around thinking to myself. Well, I am now this baby’s mother, which means I have to do it all and not show weakness. Wrong. There is no one exact perfect way to raise a newborn. Especially your first baby. This is a whole new world you are entering into. You along with your baby are trying to figure this new stage out. So, take the help. The people who offer it truly want to help you. Eat the free meals, have someone clean your house, babysit your newborn so you can take a shower for the first time in a week most likely. You need to take care of yourself before you can take care of your newborn.
Clothing tips. You are going to be tempted to buy all the newborn clothes once you see the positive sign on that pregnancy test. Then after your baby moves out of that stage. You will quickly realize what a waste half of them are. I can assure you there will be at least one, two, or even ten pieces of clothing they do not use. Also, babies poop through so many outfits. I suggest only purchasing a few nice items and keep the main wardrobe simple and something you will not mind your baby pooping through on.
Sleep. People will far worn you that once you have your newborn, you will never sleep again. I used to think. Okay, it cannot be that terrible, can it? Well, unfortunately, that statement is true. For the first few weeks, your baby is learning how to create a normal sleeping routine. So, my advice on this is to drink lots of coffee, sleep when they sleep and realize it will not last forever. This stage will pass and you will eventually get your sleep back.
These are just a few tips I learned along the way without knowing in advance. It’s hard raising these little humans. If only they came with a handbook holding all the answers. Just remember, as you navigate and learn through this new stage. There is no better mama out there for that baby than you.