The First Few Days with Baby

The first few days at home with baby are the sweetest but after that last trimester and a long labour you can be sure it is best to plan ahead in anticipation for this time. Mothers will often remember baby’s needs quite well; the nursery is painted, the cot is set up, a baby seat is installed, diapers, clothes and bottles are all purchased and ready to go, but what about you?
 
In the first few days home with baby you are going to want to be with baby constantly and preferably relaxing and recovering. This is why it is important to also consider your needs when you plan for baby’s home coming. By planning ahead you can make these few days so much more enjoyable.
 
You should consider:
 

• Stocking up the cupboard and preparing and freezing meals for the first week home with baby. This will allow you to devote your time to baby by not having to cook and it will ensure you have enough time to get used to having baby around before venturing out to the supermarket.

• Being prepared before birth by buying Breastfeeding PJ's, Breastfeeding Tops, Nursing Bras, Re-Usable Breast Pads, A Feeding Journal to keep track of everything and anything & some good quality Glass Baby Bottles.

• Asking people to wait a few days before coming for a visit and asking them to plan their visit with you first. You may want the extra time to get acquainted with your little one and recover from delivery before entertaining guests, but this will depend entirely on how you feel and your relationship.

 

• Gather the numbers of all your support people and baby specialists and tape them to your fridge. The first few days at home can be stressful if you are uneasy about what to expect and many women need a little reassurance that they are doing the right thing and that baby is fine. To ease your stress keep your midwife, doctor, lactation specialist, friends with babies and your mums contact details close by.

 
There are many things to remember for baby’s first day home, but do not fret, this is why you have nine months to plan. Simply remember that your needs must be catered to as well as baby’s to keep you both happy and healthy.