Zoned out and afraid

There is literally nothing in this world that can prepare you for motherhood. What feels like a never-ending cycle of feeding, changing nappies, and not to mention the broken nights when one-day merges into the next. So whilst you are deep in the trenches of navigating motherhood and facing sleep deprivation like nothing you’ve experienced before, your body is also trying to heal from the exhaustion of labour and childbirth. And whilst all this is going on, your hormones are rapidly beginning to adjust and reset too.

Some women may experience a feeling of isolation, exhaustion, anxiety, and low mood after childbirth. Although we are very good at coping and carrying on, these feelings can become overwhelming. If you are feeling lonely and isolated, reaching out to mum friends and parent and baby groups can be a fantastic support. As you navigate through the challenges of having a newborn, this network of friends can be your lifeline.

In those first days and weeks after giving birth, your hormone levels begin to change. Whilst this is happening, you may experience emotional highs and lows, known as ‘baby blues.’ Although ‘baby blues’ tend to subside after some days, they can be exasperated by sleep deprivation and exhaustion. It is, therefore, important to take care of yourself as much as you can by eating and resting well. I know this is easier said than done when you have a tiny little human who is completely reliant on you, but please do accept offers of help from family and friends. I promise that even if they take a few chores off your hands or hold your baby for a few moments, it will make a world of difference. If you feel that your ‘baby blues’ last longer than a few weeks, please do reach out to your doctor, health visitor, or midwife to discuss it with them. They will be able to support and help you.

Even though you may be knee-deep in nappies, feeding around the clock, and fatigued from caring for a newborn, calving out a few moments to go for a short stroll with your baby is important. In these early months, it is best to take things slowly, so the key is to start off with short walks daily. The benefits of fresh air and daylight for you and your baby have been well documented.

Now even though everyone knows that sleep goes out of the window when you become a new parent, there are definitely things that can make the journey slightly easier.  By applying good sleep practices and creating an optimal sleep environment for your newborn, you can help your little one sleep. Sometimes, a little teamwork can work wonders, too, so if you can, do share the load with your partner. Also, although you’ve probably heard this a million times already, please try to rest when your baby sleeps. Prioritizing your own sleep will give you the energy you need to take care of your newborn. And please do reach out if you need any assistance in improving your baby’s sleep.