Lesson 1, Topic 1
In Progress

What to consider when you return home with your new baby

Essential skills for new mothers

Congratulations on the arrival of your new baby! Your well-being is of the utmost importance after giving birth. It is a physically and emotionally demanding time, and taking care of yourself is crucial for your recovery and overall health. Some ways to prioritize your well-being include getting as much rest as possible, eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, taking care of the perineal area if necessary, seeking support, taking breaks, and prioritizing your physical and mental health through exercise, self-care activities, and seeking help if needed. It’s important to remember that taking care of yourself is necessary for the well-being of your entire family.

Get as much rest as possible:

It’s important to get as much rest as you can, as your body is recovering from childbirth. Try to sleep when your baby sleeps, and ask for help from your partner or family members with your household tasks and caring for the baby.

Eat a healthy diet:

It’s important to nourish your body with a healthy diet, as it will help you recover from childbirth and produce enough milk for breastfeeding. Aim to eat a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains.

Stay hydrated:

Drink plenty of fluids to help your body recover from childbirth and support breastfeeding. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of fluid a day.

Take care of your perineal area:

If you had a vaginal delivery, it’s important to take care of your perineal area (this is the area between your vagina and anus) it will help to reduce the risk of infection. Keep the area clean by wiping front to back, and avoid constipation by eating a high-fibre diet and staying hydrated.

Seek support:

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and emotional after having a baby. It is also common to experience some level of “baby blues” after giving birth. This can include feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. Don’t be afraid to seek support from your partner, family, friends, or healthcare provider. Don’t be afraid to seek out the help you need – it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.

Take breaks:

It’s important to take breaks from caring for your baby and allow yourself time to relax and recharge. Ask for help from your partner or family members when you need a break.

Take care of your physical and mental health:

Don’t forget to take care of your own physical and mental health. Exercise, eat a healthy diet, and enjoy activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Keep your newborn warm: 

As a new parent, one of your top priorities should be keeping your newborn warm and comfortable. It’s important to remember that newborns cannot regulate their body temperature as efficiently as adults, so it’s up to you to ensure that they are kept warm. One of the best ways to do this is by dressing your baby in layers and using a blanket or sleep sack to provide additional warmth at night. Not only will this help your baby sleep better, but it will also reduce the risk of them getting too cold, which can be dangerous for their health. So make sure to pay attention to your newborn’s temperature and dress them appropriately to keep them warm and happy.

Feeding:

As a newborn, feeding your baby every 2-3 hours, day and night is important. Pay attention to your baby’s hunger cues, such as rooting, sucking on their fist, or crying, and feed them as needed. If you are breastfeeding, make sure to feed your baby on demand. If you are using formula, follow the instructions on the label for the appropriate amount to feed your baby. It is essential to keep your newborn well-fed to support their growth and development.

Get plenty of rest:


Caring for a newborn can be physically and emotionally demanding. It’s important to take care of yourself and get plenty of rest to ensure you have the energy and patience to care for your newborn. Try to get as much sleep as you can, and ask for help from your partner, family, or friends when you need it. The first few weeks at home with a newborn can be overwhelming. It’s important to take it easy and give yourself time to adjust to your new role as a parent.

Bond with your baby:

Developing a strong bond with your baby is important for their overall development and well- being. One way to do this is through skin-to-skin contact, which can be soothing for both of you. You can also bond with your baby by talking, singing, and playing with them. These activities not only help you connect with your baby, but they also provide an opportunity for you to have fun and relax together. So take some time to bond with your little one, it will be worth it!

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