New Parenting 101: Answers to Your Common Questions

Whether you are a first time mom or a new mom, there are so many questions that go through your mind. Let’s talk about some of the common questions new moms have. This is not medical advice. This is all experience driven. Please consult your pediatrician if you are concerned about your baby's health and well being.

How long will I be in the hospital?

This can vary depending on your birthing experience. Most moms who have given birth with no complications will spend at least a night in the hospital. As a mom who has had three Cesareans,I have stayed in the hospital from one night (during the COVID era) to three nights. For most mothers, you are going to spend at least one night in the hospital. Refer to my article titled “First Time Mom: A Helpful Guide for What is to Come” to help you pack your hospital bag.

What happens after I leave the hospital?

Your new life begins! Yes, they will give you your baby and send you on your way. Is it scary, yes. Will it be joyous, yes. Will it be tough, yes. Will you figure it out, yes. Once you leave the hospital, you will normally return within the next few days for a newborn check up. This will allow the pediatrician to check your baby for weight gain, signs of jaundice, and any other growth and development needs. They will ask you questions like:

• How many wet diapers are they having daily?

• How many dirty (poop) diapers have they had?

• How many ounces are they drinking ( if they are bottle feed)?

• Is the baby latching on, if so how often are they eating?

When I had my first child, I had no clue that I was supposed to track all of these things. Do your best to know the answers, but don’t overwhelm yourself trying to keep up with it all. I will list my favorite baby tracking apps below. The pediatrician will also ask if you have any questions and check for symptoms of postpartum depression. Be sure to be as honest as possible.

How do I get my baby home?

Before you leave the hospital, the nurses normally want to see the baby in the car seat or that you have a car seat for the baby. If you are concerned about how to install a car seat, YouTube is extremely helpful or you can take the car seat to your local fire station and they will teach you how to install it. Remember that all babies should ride in the back seat with the car seat facing the rear.

What if my baby needs special care?

Your pediatrician should send you home with specific instructions about your baby's needs. If you have questions, ask. Don’t leave until you feel satisfied with all the questions you have asked. Make sure that you have a number to reach advice nurses or the emergency line for your pediatrician before you leave.

Why is my baby crying?

There are so many reasons your baby could be crying. Remember that your baby has entered into a new environment. You took them from this cozy, warm environment and thrust them into a new world. They are unfamiliar with it and are trying to adjust. There are a few typical reasons a baby could be crying:

• Hungry

• Sleepy

• Cold

• Needing to be burped

If those needs are taken care of, sometimes the baby just needs comfort. Do not be afraid to just pick up your baby and hold them. You may find that your baby cries a lot in the car. This normally happens when the car stops moving and that soothing sensation stops. Normally the crying will stop once the car starts moving again. Remember, the only way a baby knows how to communicate their needs is through crying. It may seem like a guessing game or trial and error, trying to figure out what’s wrong, but that is motherhood in a nutshell.

How do I cope with my crying baby?

No mother likes to hear their baby crying (at any age) but especially a newborn. Maybe their crying is overwhelming you and you are having a hard time coping with it. Here are a few things you can try to help cope with the crying:

• Go for a walk: sometimes fresh air can help soothe you and the baby.

• Eat: a lot of times we forget to eat during the newborn stage, which causes us to be easily irritated.

• Give the baby to your spouse or call a family member to help you. If you are comfortable with someone else taking care of the baby for a short time, lean on your community. This will allow you to take care of yourself for a minute or take a nap.

• Go for a drive: if you are able to drive or your spouse is available, take the baby on a ride.

• Play calming music: my children have always responded well to classical music or Baby Einstein Mozart's playlist.

• Call your OBGYN: you may be experiencing postpartum depression.

Should you wash baby clothes before use?

Yes, you want to make sure your baby's clothes are free from harmful chemicals, dirt and other allergens. Research the best detergents for babies. I have used Dreft Detergent for all three babies.

Do babies need pillows?

When preparing the crib for your baby, all babies should be placed on firm flat surfaces. The baby should always be laid on their back. Some babies may turn to their side on their own which is fine. Never put pillows, blankets or stuffed animals in a baby's crib. You want to minimize any possibility of suffocation.

Why is my newborn crying when changing diapers?

Usually a baby is crying during diaper changes because they are cold and uncomfortable. You are exposing a warm and covered area and exposing it to a cold baby wipe.

Should I swaddle my newborn?

I am a huge advocate for swaddling a baby for the first three months or until they are able to roll over. Swaddling helps to mimic the womb and often provides comfort to the baby. A lot of time this keeps your baby warm and helps them sleep.

Will my baby sleep through the night?

Normally newborns do not sleep through the night. They are awake about every two-three hours. Their sleep patterns normally will change on their own as they grow and get older. Some people choose to sleep train around five months if their baby is not sleeping through the night. Research and talk to your pediatrician to see if this is the best route for you and your family.

Extras

Babies do not come with manuals, and there is a lot to keep track of. Here are my top three favorite newborn apps:

• My Baby: helps keep track of feedings, sleep times and diaper changes.

• Baby Sparks: helps keep track of the baby's milestones.

• YouTube Music: not really specific to a baby but this is where I created my newborn music list.

Encouragement

Our newborns are little people coming into a brand new world. They enjoy the snuggles, nurturing, stability and routine just like us. Do your best to hang in there in the moments that are tough, moments where you don’t know what to do and moments where you just need a little help. We’re here for you and as always, YOU GOT THIS!