Surviving the First Weeks

Surviving the First Weeks of Parenthood

Becoming a parent is an exhilarating, exhausting, and transformative experience. The first six weeks can be particularly challenging as you navigate sleepless nights, feeding schedules, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with welcoming a new baby. As a lactation consultant, I'm here to share some practical tips and reassurance to help you survive and thrive during this critical period.

Establishing Breastfeeding

Start Early: Aim to breastfeed within the first hour after birth. This helps stimulate milk production and strengthens the bond between you and your baby.

Frequent Feedings: Newborns need to eat frequently, about 8-12 times in 24 hours. This might seem overwhelming, but it's crucial for establishing a good milk supply.

Latch and Positioning: Ensure your baby is latching correctly. A good latch is key to preventing sore nipples and ensuring your baby gets enough milk. Don't hesitate to seek help from a lactation consultant if you're struggling.

Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spend as much time as possible with your baby skin-to-skin. This not only promotes bonding but also helps regulate your baby's temperature and encourages breastfeeding.

Managing Common Breastfeeding Challenges

Engorgement: If your breasts become engorged, nurse frequently, use warm compresses before feeding to help with milk flow, and cold compresses afterward to reduce swelling.

Sore Nipples: Ensure a proper latch to prevent and alleviate sore nipples. Applying lanolin cream or breast milk can also soothe irritation.

Milk Supply Concerns: If you're worried about your milk supply, remember that frequent breastfeeding and ensuring a proper latch are the best ways to boost production. 

Book an appointment if you are struggling in anyway with feeding. The quicker you address these issues the quicker things can be improved, instead of pushing through pain until it's unbearable.

Taking Care of Yourself

Rest Whenever Possible: Sleep when your baby sleeps. Newborns have unpredictable schedules, and grabbing naps whenever you can helps manage sleep deprivation. If unable to sleep, prioritise laying down and at least resting, sometimes just being horizontal is enough to replenish energy, or spending 10-15 mins relaxing with legs up the wall will help blood flow. 

Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals. Your body needs extra calories and nutrients to produce milk and recover from childbirth. Supplementing with a pregnancy/ breastfeeding specific multivitamin can be helpful, as well as a magnesium supplement which can help with relaxation and nervous system regulation.

Accept Help: Don't hesitate to accept help from family and friends. Whether it's cooking, cleaning, or watching the baby while you nap, support is invaluable during these first weeks.

Prioritize Mental Health: Postpartum emotions can be intense and overwhelming. It's normal to feel a range of emotions, but if you're experiencing persistent sadness or anxiety, seek support from a healthcare provider or counselor.

Understanding Your Baby's Needs

Feeding Cues: Learn to recognize your baby's hunger cues, such as rooting, sucking on hands, or lip-smacking. Crying is a late sign of hunger. Remember babies feed for a number of reasons beyond just filling their tummies, such as comfort, bonding and emotional regulation. If in doubt whip it out.

Nappy Changes: Expect frequent nappy changes. Wet and soiled diapers are a good indicator that your baby is getting enough milk. At least 6 heavy wet nappies a day, with at least 3 poos by day three, transitioning from meconium to a soft yellow stool, then at least 2 soft stools a day.

Bonding Time: Spend time bonding with your baby through cuddling, talking, and gentle play. This helps your baby feel secure and loved. Babywear can help with bonding and security when you still need to go about everyday tasks.

Sleep: Newborn sleep is very variable and they can take some time to regulate their day and night cycles. Spending time letting them sleep in sunlight will help boost melatonin to help adjust this cycle, along with dark, quiet interactions at night. 

Building a Support Network

Partner Involvement: Encourage your partner to be actively involved in the caregiving process. This strengthens your relationship and provides much-needed support.

Join a Support Group: Connecting with other new parents can provide emotional support and practical advice. Many communities offer breastfeeding support groups and new parent meet-ups.

Stay in Touch with Your Healthcare Provider: Regular check-ups for both you and your baby are essential. Don't hesitate to reach out with any concerns or questions.

The first weeks of parenthood are a whirlwind of emotions, challenges, and joys. Remember that it's okay to ask for help and take things one day at a time. Trust your instincts, be kind to yourself, and cherish these precious early moments with your baby. I'm here to support you on this incredible journey. Reach out whenever you need guidance or reassurance—you're not alone in this.

With patience, perseverance, and support, you'll not only survive but also thrive in the first weeks of parenthood.