A little motherly advice

Parenthood is a beautiful thing, but it’s also filled with challenges and lifestyle changes. Knowing this, the Parkview Certified Nurse-Midwives wanted to offer up some motherly advice for new and expectant moms in hopes of helping them navigate the many milestones of motherhood.

• It’s a journey: Becoming a mother is a physical and emotional journey. Be patient, take your time and give yourself grace!
• Don’t compare: No two women are the same. They don’t carry a baby the same, give birth the same, or mother the same. Don’t compare yourself to others. You do you!
• You can do it: You are capable. You are wise. You are stronger than you think. Trust your intuition!
• One moment at a time: Savor each moment you have with your child and be gentle with yourself in moments of stress. Remember that time will pass, and you can do anything for a moment.
• Say yes to support: Surround yourself with people who love and support you, and don’t be afraid to let them help you.
• Made for each other: You are the perfect person for your baby. You were designed for each other.
• Self-care isn’t selfish: Enjoy your pregnancy but be sure to take time for yourself. Remember, self-care and making time for your partner is essential, especially in the first year of having a baby. Enjoying a night out with your significant other or a manicure with a friend can make all the difference.
• In it together: It's okay to feel like you don't know what you're doing. That's how the rest of us feel too!
• You’re still you: Approach this new phase of life with open arms and remember it won’t last forever. You may even feel like your identity has taken a back seat, but, in reality, it’s enhanced. And, with time, many of your identifiers will move back to the forefront as your children grow. Remember to be patient with this season of life, and don’t forget to soak it in.   
• Bask in break times: Allow others to help give you a break. You will need a night out with family or friends, which will be fun and help restore your energy.  
• Lean into your care team: Leaving the hospital can be scary. It’s only natural to feel nervous, but try to relax and let others help you. Also, if you feel overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to speak with your provider. Hospitals usually provide information at your discharge with phone numbers you can call if you have unanswered questions once you get home.
• Set up a schedule: After you arrive home, everyone will want to visit and see the new baby. Don’t feel obligated to host all visitors. Instead, pick a time that works best for you and won’t interfere with your or the baby’s rest times. Besides, they can wait until you’re ready and on a better schedule with your baby. 
• Stay calm: If your baby is crying, it’s a good idea to run through the reasons in your head. Try checking their diaper. Make sure they are dry, fed, burped and swaddled. After that, if your baby is still crying, it’s important to remember that sometimes babies cry no matter what we do. If you become overwhelmed, please place your baby in a safe space and walk away so you can take a few moments for yourself. You can also ask your significant other to take over for a bit.
• Snuggle up: It’s simply untrue that if you hold your baby all the time, you will spoil them. Newborns cannot be spoiled. Babies need human contact. It’s imperative to their development.
• Education is key: Make time for education like breastfeeding and safe sleep classes.
• Keep moving: Try staying active with prenatal yoga or walking once you bring home the baby.
• We’re always here for you: Know that your Parkview Certified Nurse-Midwives are here to provide support and guidance throughout your pregnancy, delivery and postpartum experiences. Our goal is to have a happy, healthy mom and baby!