Parents kissing a newborn baby

Self Care for New Parents

After childbirth it will take some time for your body and emotions to recover. So don’t expect miracles in the early weeks– it will take months for you to return to your pre-pregnancy health. Remember, you are trying to learn your new role as a mother as well as dealing with broken sleep.

Young father playing with his daughter inside with toys

Ideally, it’s good to get out of the house for a short break with your baby every day.

It’s important to nurture yourself as well as the baby. Take advantage of the time when baby’s asleep to have a rest or do something for yourself. Sleep when the baby sleeps and accept all offers of practical help. The housework and washing will wait. Consider a nappy wash service for the first few weeks if you’re using cloth nappies.

Ideally, it’s good to get out of the house for a short break with your baby every day. Many mothers feel they don’t have the time, but try to make the time. The trick is to be realistic. You don’t have to go out for two hours, just half an hour is fine – either for a short walk or to catch up briefly with a friend or neighbour. Going for a walk each day with your baby is also great exercise. Whatever you choose, make it achievable and regular. Remember it may be months before you resume your pre-pregnancy exercise program.

Young father playing with his daughter inside with toys

Healthy diet

It is important to have a well balanced diet especially if you are breastfeeding. Try to have regular meals from a variety of nutritious foods, including fruit, vegetables, grains, cereals, legumes, dairy, lean meat, fish or other proteins. Drink plenty of water and avoid too much coffee, sugary or junk foods, because they just give you a quick lift without being nutritious – and if you’re breastfeeding, they can also make your baby agitated.

Try to plan ahead for the evening meal. Keep the meals easy to prepare as well as nutritious, so that if you are busy feeding or settling the baby when your partner comes home, one of you can care for the baby while the other cooks dinner. Sharing the load will give you both more time to relax in the evening when you are tired. Also try ordering your shopping online, buy lots of frozen food for your freezer, filling the pantry with tinned food and packets of pasta and pasta sauce.

Chapter 1 Baby Basics

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