Taking care of a new baby during the postpartum period is exciting yet also very overwhelming for new parents. During this figure shifting time, legitimate newborn child care and postpartum care are basic to ensure that both mother and tyke are solid and thriving.
Parenthood: Gentle Start—Baby Care
The joy and responsibility of welcoming a newborn into your life can be overwhelming. Below are some must-know tips on how you can care for your baby:
1.Feeding Your Baby
Breastfeeding gives crucial nutrients and helps mother and baby to bond. Try to feed on demand every 2-3 hours.
If formula feeding, prepare according to manufacturer’s instructions and please, please do this in a clean place.
2.Diapering and Hygiene
Keep changing diapers regularly to prevent diaper rash.
Gentle wipes and diaper creams as needed.
3.Bathing Basics
Give your baby a sponge bath until the umbilical cord stump falls off.
Stick to warm (not hot) water and baby soaps to keep your baby’s sensitive skin safe.
4.Sleep Schedule
Babies sleep 14-17 hours a day. Avoiding excess including valuables, covers and soft toys in the comfort of your baby, ensure a stable resting spot, avoid loving them with warmth.
5.Bonding and Comfort
Holding your baby naked against your skin fosters emotional attachment and helps to regulate your baby’s body temperature.
Praise your baby, talk to them, sing with them and cuddle them to encourage emotional development.
Postpartum Care: Taking Care of the No. 1.
Postpartum care is crucial to a mother’s recovery and wellbeing. So, how can you take care of yourself?
1.Physical Recovery
Get as much rest as possible to facilitate healing.
Hydrate and nourish your body with a healthy diet to aid in the process of recovery and breastfeeding.
Do pelvic floor exercises to strengthen muscles that may have been weakened during childbirth.
2.Emotional Well-being
Postpartum sadness is normal, but if it doesn’t fade, reach out to a health care professional.
You can also join support groups or talk to loved ones to relieve you from stress and anxiety.
3.Postpartum Checkups
Your doctor should also schedule follow-up appointments to check how you are recovering and discuss questions you may have.
4.Accept Help
Let family and friends help with chores and baby care. And it’s OK to seek help.
Taking Care of a Baby vs Taking Care of Yourself
The initial postpartum weeks are a precarious balancing act. A routine can help balance taking care of baby and yourself. Remind yourself that it’s completely normal to be overwhelmed; take it one day at a time and enjoy the little victories.
Conclusion
Taking care of a baby and taking care of yourself in the postpartum period will go hand in hand as you begin this exciting new chapter of your life. As long as you put both your baby and yourself first, you will be able to nurture your new family together.