12 Things Expecting Parents Need to Know (After Their Baby Arrives)

Congratulations, you're expecting a baby! You must have so many questions and are probably feeling a little overwhelmed. I know the last thing on your mind is what to do after your baby arrives, but that's exactly what we're talking about in this post. It's important for expecting parents to be prepared for what happens after their baby is born - from how they'll feed and change them to when they should start taking them outside. Here in this post, we want to provide you with 12 things that every new parent needs to know (after their baby arrives).

You're probably wondering...

*What should I consider for feeding and changing?

*How long do I have to stay in the hospital?

*How long do babies sleep?

*What is colostrum?

*What should I feed my baby?

*Where should I feed my baby?

*What should I bring with me to the hospital?

*What should I not do?

*What should I not do?

*How much sleep should I expect to get?

*Will I be able to go back to work?

*How do I get my baby to sleep?

*I'm a worrier, what should I be concerned about?

Here are some answers to the above questions.

*What are your goals for feeding and changing them?

A lot of parents want to breastfeed, but not all moms can. If you are able to breastfeed exclusively (meaning no other foods or liquids), then that's great! You'll need a pump in order to store milk at work when you're away from the baby and not able to breastfeed.

*How long do I have to stay in the hospital?

You'll be discharged from the hospital when your doctor says you're ready, but it's typically around five days postpartum (depending on what kind of birth experience and care you had). The exact time may vary depending on if this is your first time or if you're a repeat mom.

*How long do babies sleep?

Babies have very different patterns when it comes to sleeping, but they typically take three naps a day and spend the majority of their time sleeping at night (about 16 hours). This may change as your baby gets older - some babies only need one nap every day! It depends on your baby and you should be ready to make adjustments as needed.

*What is colostrum?

Colostrum (also called "early milk") is the first type of breastmilk that a new mom makes after her pregnancy ends, which can take up to two weeks or more for most women. This will help in having an easier time digesting, and will give your baby a boost of nutrients.

*What should I feed my baby?

You can start feeding them formula or breastmilk right away after birth - if you choose to exclusively pump milk for six months, it's important that you talk with your doctor about how much is enough for the first time you find your baby is hungry.

*Where should I feed my baby?

You can start this at home or in the hospital, but eventually, you'll want to find a way to feed them while on-the-go and once they're not too little for their car seat - we recommend doing it next to something like a shopping cart where there is a railing or handle.

*What should I bring home with me?

Ask your hospital, doctor, or midwife what you need to prepare before leaving the hospital and make sure that they give it all to you at delivery so that there's less running around after! The essentials include diapers (cloth if you're going for a zero-waste experience), wipes, a mini packet of baby lotion or oil, and breastfeeding pads.

*What should I not do?

It important for a couple or partner to work together. If you're the person giving birth, don't feel like you have to be the only one who sleeps - it's just as important for your partner (or other caregivers) to take naps when they're able whenever possible. You want to be able to rest up for when the baby wakes you in the middle of the night, so make sure that your partner is well rested.

*What should I do?

Ask your hospital or birth center about breastfeeding classes! This can be helpful if it's been a while since you last breastfed and are unsure of how to start again. You will also want to get up and move around as soon as possible. This will help your circulation from slowing down and reduce the risk of blood clots, which at times can be problematic for new moms.

*How much sleep should I expect to get?

Don't plan on getting a lot of sleep! Though it might seem impossible now, in time you'll adjust to your new life.

*Will I be able to go back to work?

A lot depends on the type of job that you have and how much time you want with your baby, but usually, it's possible! Many workplaces offer child care services for parents who need a little help getting their babies in between daycare sessions or naptimes. Or you may have a partner who can take over for you at home.

*How do I get my baby to sleep?

Here's a technique to try. So why not have some fun with your little one? After she eats and has a change, try singing or talking to her in the crib while gently patting her back. She'll usually go back to sleep.

*And now a bonus question. I'm a worrier, what should I be concerned about?

You're not alone! Every new parent worries - it's part of the job description to anticipate as many possible scenarios and create contingency plans for any difficulties that might arise with your baby so you can keep him or her healthy. Remember, don't be hard on yourself, enjoy the experience.