Early motherhood can be both wondrous and scary. According to St. Francis Hospital and Health Centers in Beech Grove, Indiana, many new mothers are worried about how to care for their baby. Although you won't know everything about your baby's first days and weeks, it can help to have a basic understanding of what to expect.
Appearance
New mothers often are surprised and fearful about how their babies look. According to the website Kids Health, most babies have slightly disfigured heads, long paper-thin nails and slightly purple skin. Some babies are born with a layer of fluffy hair all over their bodies. This odd appearance is a temporary condition that quickly abates over the first few weeks of life. You doctor runs tests on your baby and can reassure you that he is healthy.
Feeding
One of your first considerations is how to feed your baby. Breastfeeding is one of healthiest and most common forms of feeding, according to St. Francis Hospital and Health Centers. While the process is natural and your body automatically prepares for breastfeeding, most hospitals provide lactation instructors to help your or answer questions.
Bonding
According to Kids Health, the intimate bonding that takes place in early motherhood between a mother and baby is vital to the child's emotional growth and socialization, self-esteem and sense of security. The bonding process takes time and continues to grow in early motherhood as you care for your baby. Holding, rocking, touching and talking to a baby increases the level of bonding.
Sleep
New mothers typically do not get much sleep, because newborns do not recognize the difference between day and night and usually sleep in three- to four-hour stretches. You must learn to catch naps and rest when your baby rests. Newborns will sleep an average of 16 hours per day.
Warning
Powerful emotions are triggered by the birth of a new baby. According to the Mayo Clinic, early motherhood can trigger hormonal imbalances that can lead to postpartum depression in some new mothers. You might be at greater risk for postpartum depression if you have had it with past births or if you are experiencing other emotional turmoil such as financial or relationship problems. Left untreated, postpartum depression can have serious consequences for you and your baby. Talk to your doctor if you feel you might be experiencing postpartum depression. Treatment can include therapy and medication.
