16 Best Tips For Moms With Newborns

This article covers useful tips for moms with newborns. I remember when my baby was about to be born, I had no idea what to expect. I told myself that this is it – the last few moments before my life changes forever. It’s normal for moms with newborns to feel overwhelmed at first. How do you know if you’re going to be a good parent? How will you know what your baby wants when he cries? Luckily there is a great thing called “mother instinct” that kicks in once you hold your little one in your arms.

I developed preeclampsia during the last few days of my pregnancy and had to undergo an emergency C-section. I had to spend a few extra days in hospital until my blood pressure stabilized and it was safe for me to go home. This was actually a good thing because it gave me the opportunity to spend alone time with my baby. When you’re thrown into the deep water, you have no choice but to do what you can and learn your baby’s cues for when he’s sleepy, hungry, or when they need you to step in and fulfill whatever need he has. In the meantime, here are a few helpful tips to make it a bit easier for you.

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16 Best Tips For Moms With Newborns

Feeding Guidelines

• Newborns needs to nurse at least every two to three hours or every two to fours hours with formula. If your little one sleeps for longer than four hours, you will need to wake him up for a feed.
• When your newborn seems satisfied after a feed, it’s a good sign that he feeding well.
• Another excellent way to know if your baby is eating sufficient is by keeping an eye on the amount of soiled nappies. You should expect to notice 5-6 wet diapers and around 4-5 soiled nappies by day four.
• A newborn’s poop is usually soft with a yellowish color and it might look there’s seeds in it.
• If you’re facing challenges with breastfeeding, speak to a lactation consultant or pediatrician about what you can do to remedy the issue.

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Newborn Crying

• Newborn babies cry often – sometimes because they’re feeling too cold or too hot, have an upset tummy, are tired or hungry, need a nappy change, or simply need to be held.
• If your baby is fed and changed, you can swaddle or hold them, play some white noise, rock them, or sing to them.
• Some babies love a pacifier – it can help to prevent SIDS and for them to fall asleep easier.
• Don’t worry about spoiling them – there is no such thing as giving them too much love. They grow up so fast, so this is the time to cradle them and make them feel loved and protected.

During the fourth trimester (three months after birth), skin-to-skin contact is excellent for neurological development. Try not to be too hard on yourself when you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed during the first few weeks after your baby was born. Remember bringing your new baby home requires a significant adjustment to your daily routine. You need to settle in and find out what works best for you and him to get comfortable.

Sleep deprivation also takes its toll and it might take weeks for you to feel your old self again. Don’t feel embarrassed to ask for help from family and friends or reach out to your doctor or pediatrician if you have questions.

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Sleep Safety Guidelines

• Always place your baby on his back to lower the risk of SIDS.
• Place your newborn in a baby-safe crib on a flat and firm surface. Avoid putting him on the bed, a cushion, a chair, or sofa where he can fall off and get injured.
• When your baby is still this tiny, avoid putting stuffed toys, fluffy bedding, or pillows in the crib to prevent him from smothering.
• Swaddling your baby is recommended, but avoid placing loose blankets in the crib.
• You can sleep in the same room as your baby but try not to let him sleep in your bed.
• If your little one falls asleep in a baby sling, stroller, or carrier, take him out and place him on a flat surface for the remainder of his nap.
• Don’t depend on devices that claim to lower the risk of SIDS, like wedges, monitors, or positioners.

Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it, my best tips for moms with newborns. Having a newborn can be tough at first between nappy changes, multiple feeds, and sleep deprivation at the order of the day. But remember, this is only temporary. They grow up so fast and this is the time for cuddling them and creating an everlasting bond. Once they’re all grown up, you’ll miss the days when he was only a tiny baby that you held close to your heart.