I am bringing my newborn baby boy home tomorrow! We just finally started making progress breast feeding tonight and we go home tomorrow. But it's not just breastfeeding, I am terrified I won't be able to meet all his needs. I am totally overwhelmed by emotions (hormones?) and need some advice, encouragement, and understanding from moms who have been here.
Thank you all sooooo much!
Re: I have never been so scared in my life, please help me out, ladies!
I don't want to scare you anymore than you already are but the first 2 weeks after LO was born I cried everyday. Probably from hormones being all wonky but also from the sleep deprivation.
Its hard but it gets better. I can honestly say I am now the happiest I've ever been. Your instincts will kick in & you'll just do what you need to.
The fact that you care should reassure you that you WILL figure it all out. It comes with time but they really don't have many needs so you've got a short check list to work with Feed him, change him often. Keep him warm and snuggled. These boards are great if you have questions and of course, if you're really worried, call your pedi. The good news is that short of blatant neglect or physical harm, even if you screw up, you're not likely to cause any real issues
The only real piece of advice I will give you is this: despite how smart and loving your mother or MIL may be (or any other older person) don't blindly follow their advice. Their intentions are good but a lot has changed since they raised a baby and their suggestions of "letting baby cry, it's good for the lungs" and "feed him cereal so he sleeps!" are outdated gems probably among many others they'll offer
I can't thank you all enough for your words of encouragement and advice! We have been home for over 24 hours and are doing well. I have had an enormous amount of support from my husband and help from my lactation consultant. My overwhelming emotions settled down after sharing them with my husband also. I am proud of us and taking it one feeding at a time.
Your messages really helped me out and calmed me down. Just knowing that I was normal and that others went through the same feelings with success eased my anxiety!
Thanks a million from both baby Zach and myself!
A little late to the party here, but take it one day at a time. To be really, really honest, the first 6 weeks for me were very hard. I am a type A personality and always try to take on too much. So I got really stressed the first few weeks trying to do everything that I did before I had E. You can't though. You change and your life changes. Enjoy your baby and good luck!
[MC 11.20.11] [DS born 9.24.12] [DD born 10.15.14]