Tips for new mothers before and after childbirth

Although the time of delivery is one of the moments that most worry new mothers, the acid test comes a few days later with the baby's arrival home. Facing that moment is not easy as new mothers, but as the days go by you will realize that it is all a matter of practice.

Even so, we are going to give some tips for new mothers before and after childbirth, which will help you know what you need and what guidelines we recommend following.

What a new mother needs

Before the baby is born, it is necessary to obtain a series of essential things for the baby's well-being. These accessories and furniture will be very necessary and you will not have time to buy them when your little one is born. That is why it is recommended to purchase them a few months in advance. But what are they?

The crib, a place to sleep

The baby will need a suitable sleeping place after birth. There are hundreds of models, so you will have to choose the one that best suits the breeding method you are going to use. The co-sleeping crib, for example, is the most recommended by both the WHO and UNICEF, since it promotes breastfeeding and reduces the probability of sudden baby death.

The bathtub and the changing table

Bath time is one of the favorites of all new mothers. Indeed, the baby may not like her first forays into the water too much, but as the weeks go by she will love it. That is why having a suitable bathtub for him is very necessary.

The changing table is another of those necessary elements in the baby's room. It will not only be used to change the diaper but also to dress the baby every day.

Hygiene and care products

Wipes, diapers, soap with neutral pH, special sponges, or a baby brush are some of the hygiene products that a new mother needs. As they are basic products, we recommend buying them before having the baby.

Cotton clothes

Cotton clothing should be a priority since it is the one that can cause the fewest allergies in a baby. Likewise, it is important to have several sets of clothes, especially pajamas. Babies tend to get dirty quickly, so having clean clothes will be a priority.

What to carry in the baby's basket?

One month before the expected date of delivery, it is important to prepare the basket that you will take to the hospital, which is another of the things that a new mother needs to know. For you, you can include a pair of nightgowns, preferably open in the front to facilitate breastfeeding, underwear, slippers, your usual toiletry bag, postpartum pads, nursing pads, and the clothes you will wear to return home.

For the baby, the Spanish Association of Pediatrics recommends adding cotton clothing for five days, such as bodysuits, booties, hats, mittens or pajamas, diapers and wipes for newborns, bottom cream, bibs, and the necessary utensils to carry it to the house (blanket, stroller or cuckoo).

Basic baby care

One of the great fears of new mothers is not knowing what basic care for the baby is. Next, we are going to give some tips so that the arrival of the baby is not so exhausting.

Umbilical cord care

Healing the umbilical cord is one of the most common fears among new mothers, but there is no need to worry since all you need is a gauze soaked in 70% alcohol. It will end up falling off only between the eighth and tenth day.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is the best way to feed a baby during the first year of life. The WHO recommends that a baby's first six months be exclusively breastfed. It is true that the first few times it can be quite difficult for the baby to latch onto the breast, so we recommend a lot of patience, calm, and a nursing pillow to make it more comfortable for you.

Infant colic

With the first feedings, the first colic may appear. To avoid them as much as possible, you should never forget the time to expel gas after meals. If the baby still suffers from colic, a gentle abdominal massage is usually very effective, also in our article What is colic? We give you some suggestions to help your little one. 

Go to the pediatrician if you want professional advice.

When should a baby eat

Breastfeeding on demand is the most appropriate feeding method according to experts. You have to let the baby ask for food and not force him to eat. This will avoid cramps and cramps. If you have doubts about breastfeeding, in the article How to breastfeed we explain the basic aspects that you should know. 

Baby sleeping position

Although each baby is different, pediatricians recommend putting the baby to sleep on his or her back or side. The baby should be prevented from sleeping on his stomach and from having too many stuffed animals in the crib. In addition, we also recommend that you take advantage of the baby's sleeping hours to sleep.

When to visit the pediatrician

The baby's first visit to the pediatrician should take place in the first week of life. If you leave the hospital later, we recommend that you visit the pediatrician in the first week of living at home with the baby. This way, the doctor will be able to do a thorough examination of the baby and check that everything is fine. In addition, the pediatrician will also be able to make some recommendations about the care of your baby.