Becoming a new parent can be exciting. But if you're going through some underlying emotion that makes you worry or nervous, you're not alone.
Welcoming your first baby into the world can be overwhelming. From friendly advice from family or friends to insecurities, it's a whirlwind of unfamiliar thoughts and feelings.
But here's the thing...while it doesn't come naturally at first, you'll figure it out eventually. Believe it, ignore unsolicited advice and follow your gut. We all worry at different stages of a child's life, but you'll be glad you're following your gut, especially in the newborn stage.
As a new parent, you may have many common concerns. So, to put your mind at ease, here are 7 things new parents should worry about but shouldn't:
1. What if my fertility plan is not going well?
It's important to think of your fertility plan as an evolving plan. When you give birth, everything will not go exactly as you planned. Therefore, being flexible in your plan will relieve any stress you may be feeling. If you are planning to have a nonpharmacological delivery and have complications, you may need to reconsider the plan. Take a deep breath and let it go. This way you save energy for what matters most - work.
2. Parenting chaos:
Parenting is a mess, whether you already know it or not. From chores to routines to passing visitors, trying to fight it can be stressful. deal with it. People understand that if you have a young family, the house will go crazy. This is only part of the job description.
3. Inexperience:
Parenting is the most natural thing we experience. But that doesn't mean parenting can be learned in a day. It takes time, patience and practice. Don't be discouraged if you don't get something right away. The more you do it, the easier it is.
4. Cry:
baby cry. There is no way to fix it. Guess what...it's normal! Babies cry to communicate. They have no other way of letting you know what they need. Learning baby cues takes some time and patience, but once you get to know your baby better, you'll understand the cues and it's easier to understand what he's trying to convey.
5. Breastfeeding:
You may have noticed the stigma associated with bottle feeding your baby. And no matter how hard you try, you will always get advice and judgment from other people on the matter. Do yourself a favor and ignore it! In this case, trust your instincts and do the right thing for you and your baby. The Fed is the best!
6. Intimacy with your baby:
For some people, bonding may not happen right away. It doesn't matter. You've just had a baby, and the feelings and emotions can be overwhelming. At first you may feel tired rather than in love, and that's okay. Bonding is a process that deepens over time.
7. Follow the book:
Maybe after reading 10 books you feel like you're ready for your new baby. But nothing beats intuition and instinct. If it's not in the book, just let it go.
At the end of the day, it doesn't matter if your birth plan is working or if your house is clean for visitors. If you're not sure at first, or don't know how to make her cry, that's okay. It doesn't matter whether you're breastfeeding or bottle feeding, or whether you bond with your baby right away or at 6 months.
No book can match your parenting instincts. No matter what advice you get along the way, you'll always know what's best.
Focus on your relationship with yourself, your partner, and your new baby, and let it guide you. Believe this and let go of these worries because they don't matter in the long run. Only your love for your baby is what counts and will keep them remembered.
