It’s one of the most wonderful and terrifying moments in a woman’s life: welcoming a new baby into the world. It can feel like such an overwhelming moment that many first-time mothers always look for ways to prepare themselves and reduce stress while maintaining some sense of normalcy. To ensure that becoming a new mother is as stress-free and natural as possible, here are 10 common questions that first-time mothers often ask during their pregnancy and delivery.
1. How Often Should I Feed the Baby?
The most common response is to breastfeed your baby whenever they show signs of hunger, which could be every hour. To ensure that the baby is getting the most out of each feeding, it’s important to know how to position them while feeding properly.
2. Is the Baby Crying Too Much?
New mothers often wonder if their newborns cry too much, especially at night. It’s important to understand that a newborn baby will cry for various reasons, including hunger, wet/dirty diapers, and discomfort around strangers. The best thing you can do is be patient and try to calm the baby down by using different soothing techniques such as rocking, cuddling, and singing. After a few days, it will be easier to understand what the baby wants when they cry.
3. What Should I Do When My Baby is Crying?
It’s normal for new mothers to panic and feel helpless when they hear their babies cry loudly. However, there are many things you can do to reduce that feeling of panic. It’s best to calm yourself down first, then determine the reason for their cries. Try rocking them or cuddling them and if that doesn’t work, change their diapers or offer them a milk bottle. If they continue crying, it’s best to take them to a doctor immediately.
4. What If I Get Post-Delivery Complications?
One of the biggest fears for a mother after giving birth is suffering from an illness or disease, including post-partum depression, infection, and hemorrhage. There are several ways to prevent these complications, and many self-help methods to reduce stress and manage symptoms. If symptoms like bleeding persist, ensure you contact your your OBGYN in Richmond, VA, or a certified gynecologist. With their help, you can get the right treatment quickly.
5. Should I Get a Physical Exam After Delivery?
It’s normal to experience a hormone drop after giving birth, which can cause depression and insomnia. However, you can prevent these physical symptoms by getting adequate sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. It’s best to get a physical exam or consult your OB-GYN as soon as possible if you have any of the following symptoms: fever, unusual swelling, pain in the abdomen or pelvis region, or excessive vaginal discharge.
6. How Do I Prepare for Breastfeeding?
For many mothers, breastfeeding is the most important factor in their recovery after giving birth. While it may seem overwhelming initially, there are multiple ways to prepare for breastfeeding your newborn.
You may get a breastfeeding pillow, which will allow you to keep your baby close while they eat and can be removed when they are done. Also, try pumping at least once daily for one minute to build up the breast milk supply.
7. What is Post-partum Depression and How Can I Stop It?
Post-partum depression is a mental illness that mostly affects women after giving birth. While it may seem normal with the many adjustments in life, post-partum depression can be very dangerous for you and your baby. If you think you’re suffering from this condition, make sure to visit a doctor right away.
8. When Can I Start Exercising Post-Delivery?
It’s best to start light exercises a day or two after delivery. Try walking slowly while holding your baby, and slowly build your way up. It will be best to start simple exercises such as stretching or walking instead of intense workouts that can cause injury.
9. Will the Baby Sleep Through the Night?
As a new mother, it can be hard to imagine a time when your newborn will sleep through the night. However, there are steps you can take to ensure that happens. It’s best to feed them as soon as they wake up and repeat until they’re asleep. Another option is to offer them a bottle on demand, which may help them fall back asleep after feeding.
10. Can I Still Enjoy my Sex Life?
Pregnancy and childbirth can put a strain on your sex life. However, there are several things you can do to help maintain your libido and get back on track with your partner. You may try enjoying foreplay before intercourse and trying new positions, or visit a certified gynecologist or an OB-GYN, who will help you get back on track after childbirth.
Conclusion
First-time mothers often wonder about various concerns during their pregnancy and delivery, so it’s best to go over these questions with your OB-GYN. Learning the answers to these questions will help you get through the early stages of motherhood smoothly.
Written by: Hannah Boothe
About the writer: Hannah Boothe is a freelance writer native to Northern California who spends her free time developing herself. Hannah enjoys the outdoors, she goes hiking whenever the weather permits and enjoys practicing yoga. She carves out time to journal and read whenever she can. She loves adventure and connecting with those around her.