There is no greater feeling in the world than finding out that you’re going to be a mom. You’re likely feeling a swirl of emotions, from the initial excitement of pregnancy to the gradual apprehension that can build over those long nine months. The good news is that most first-time moms feel this way. Knowing what to expect as a first-time mom can help ease your worries and better prepare you for the ups and downs of motherhood.
Here are some things that all first-time moms should know:
1. Newborns Don’t Always Follow a Schedule
It can be disheartening to spend so much time creating schedules and daily routines for when baby arrives, only to find that your schedule doesn’t work. Babies do not always follow our intended birth plans or preferred routines after birth – and that’s okay! Just because everything is not going to plan doesn’t mean you’re not doing a great job. Just go with the flow and allow your baby to take the lead.
2. It Doesn’t Go By “So Fast”
So many people will tell you that the baby days “go by so fast.” However, when you’re raising a child, it can seem like every day drags on. Despite this realization, every moment with your baby is precious. To make time go by faster, get back out in the world and make memories. Grab your stroller and head to the local library, park, or for a relaxing walk around the neighborhood. Babies love to explore the world around them.
3. Asking for Help Can Be a Good Thing
It’s normal to want to do everything yourself when baby arrives. Many new moms do not take time for self-care postpartum, which can disrupt the recovery period. It’s important to accept help from those around you, starting directly after birth. Consider allowing the baby to stay in the hospital nursery for at least one night while you get proper rest. Once at home, allow family members to help hold, feed, and change the baby.
4. Breastfeeding Can Be Hard
Pregnant moms are always hearing that “breast is best,” but that doesn’t mean that breastfeeding is easy. Breastfeeding can be difficult and it is certainly not right for everyone. The most important thing is that your baby receives the nutrition that he or she needs to thrive, whether it comes from a breast or bottle. Just know that if you do decide to breastfeed, it can be a little rocky at first but it does get easier over time.
5. Don’t Forget to Take Plenty of Maternity Photos
Pregnancy is a special time that comes and goes so quickly. Some moms forget to take photos of their growing belly and soon regret it. To ensure that you have plenty of memories to look back on, consider scheduling a maternity photoshoot in your third trimester. Rent a maternity photoshoot dress from a reputable business, such as Mama Bump Rentals, which offers designer maternity dress rentals.
Shop Maternity Dress Rentals
It’s important for first-time moms to practice self-care before and after baby is born. At Mama Bump Rentals, we offer maternity dresses for special occasions like baby showers, maternity photoshoots, and other important events. Shop your favorite styles from today’s biggest maternity-wear designers.
