Motherhood is an exciting time full of challenges, with most of them starting well before our babies are even born. Although all mums face a range of challenges every day, there are some common themes those with newborns can always relate to. We had a bit of an ask around Peachy HQ and came up with what we thought were the biggest.
Hormones
The day your baby arrives they carry along with them a big old suitcase full of hormones, and unfortunately these stick around for quite some time. In the days and weeks after having your baby, you’ll probably experience a rollercoaster of highs and lows, and find yourself getting emotional over just about anything.
How to Deal With It:
Although some of these hormonal surges can be unpleasant, your body will also receive some good ones too. Research shows that oxytocin is released not only during labour but pregnancy and breastfeeding too, allowing us to cope better with certain situations. Try to remind yourself that your body has been through a lot, and things will level out eventually.
Sleep Deprivation
The tiredness you’ll feel as a new mother is like no other, and no amount of pregnancy napping can prepare you for it. New babies wake up almost two hourly for feeds and comfort through their first few weeks, and some might do even more than that.
How to Deal With It:
Although it can be hard when you’re in the midst of your fourth wake up for the night and it’s only 1:00 am, try to fill your thoughts with the knowledge that this stage will be over fairly quickly. For now, you’re the best source of comfort for this little bundle of joy, so try to steal daytime naps while you can.
Uncertainty
As a new mother, you’ll probably feel uncertain about anything and everything. Should you change the baby’s nappy now or wait, do they have enough layers of clothing on to be warm, and are they sleeping too much or not enough? If there’s anything left to question, you’ll find a way to do it.
How to Deal With It:
The only real solution to uncertainty is time, as eventually, you’ll find the things you once worried about are a distant memory and there are many new and exciting things to second guess. This is one of the integral parts of motherhood that never really fades.
Loneliness
When you have a baby, it can be an incredibly lonely period of your life. Although you might be surrounded by loved ones, it is still somewhat isolating. New mums are alone during the night time feeds, they’re alone in thoughts about their baby, and they’re alone in this monumental role of mother.
How to Deal With It:
Never be afraid to ask for help, whether it’s from friends, family, or health care workers. Take advantage of the friend who offers to fold the washing or someone asking to hold the baby for 10 minutes so you can get a hot shower in peace.
Breastfeeding
Many people will testify that breastfeeding can be a bigger challenge than labour itself, and it’s no surprise that people struggle with it.If you’re determined to make it work, you’ll likely suffer through cracked nipples, engorgement, and possibly even mastitis in the first weeks and months.
How to Deal With It:
When you’re set on breastfeeding but feel like you’re failing, seek out the help of a professional lactation consultant through the LCANZ website. They can refer you to a consultant, and just half an hour with them can completely change your breastfeeding journey for the better.
Post Pregnancy Body
You probably didn’t expect to waddle out of the delivery room looking like Miranda Kerr, but your post pregnancy body might still be quite a shock to you. For weeks and months after birth, you might have a large protruding stomach, carrying fluid all over, and your breasts will be doing weird and wonderful things.
How to Deal With It:
If you’re feeling a bit down in the dumps, treat yourself to some items that can help you embrace your post pregnancy body. Luxurious maternity bras, high waisted and comfortable pants, and trendy breastfeeding tops can add a bit of style to an otherwise frumpy time in your life.
Pressure
Whether it comes internally or you’re feeling pressure from someone else, it can feel overwhelming as a new mother. Everyone has an opinion on how things should be, and they’ll want you to follow their advice intently.
How to Deal With It:
The best thing to do with unwarranted advice and pressure from outsiders is to block it out, plain and simple. Smile and nod on the outside and let it pass over you like a wave, as there’s no need to add any more stress to this already challenging time as a new mother.
Nobody ever said this motherhood gig was going to be easy, so the number one thing to remember is to go easy on yourself. Eventually, you’ll learn how to tackle these challenges just in time for the next exciting one to pop up.
For more on pregnancy and parenthood, check out the rest of our articles in the Peachymama blog.
Further Reading:
https://www.lcanz.org/find-a-lactation-consultant/
https://www.llli.org/get-help/