Ten Tips for Surviving New Motherhood

Ten Tips for Surviving New Motherhood

1. Be easy on yourself. There’s no such thing as a perfect mother, so don’t wear yourself out trying to get everything just so.

2. Accept all offers of help. Let your visitors make tea and tidy the kitchen for you; every little helps.

3. Ask the experts. If you’re at all worried about anything, ask your midwife, health visitor or GP. They won’t mind “stupid” questions; they’re there to help.

4. Get out and about. It’s good for you to get out of the house, and chatting to other people will stop you from feeling isolated.

5. Do an activity. If you can’t face mother and baby groups, find a group that does an activity, like baby massage or yoga, or postnatal exercise. It’s easier to make friends when you’re all doing something together.

6. Trust your instincts. If your baby doesn’t do what the book says he or she should do, don’t panic. Provided what you’re doing is safe, legal and kind, you can’t go far wrong.

7. Be proud of your new body. It’s done an amazing thing by carrying a baby, so give it time to get back to normal and be proud of its achievement.

8. Eat right. It’s important for you to keep eating well, especially if you’re breastfeeding. When you’re shopping, remember to throw some healthy snacks into the basket along with the baby stuff.

9. Don’t worry about other mothers. So what if their babies sleep longer or feed more easily? No two babies are the same so just get on with doing things your way.

10. Have a laugh. Keep your spirits up by reading a funny book or watching a comedy on TV. Baby raising doesn’t need to be too serious a business.

Patricia Carswell is a life coach for mothers and runs antenatal courses preparing expectant parents for the emotional challenges of having a baby. www.coachingformothers.com