You have survived through nine months of pregnancy and child birth and entered a new phase in your life. Your body and mind (if that still exists) has transformed into a baby-feeding-and-comforting machine.  With your little bundle of joy in your arms you forget all pains. If you feel anything like this then read on.

First Month: Is all about instincts and reflexes

Equipped with all the information from doctors, nurses, neighbors, your mother and mother in law, when you start the journey of motherhood, rely on your own instincts.

Bonding might not happen right away:

There’s going to come a moment where you wonder why you even became a mom. It is estimated that 70-80 percent of new moms experience it. The feeling will probably come at about 3AM in the morning. You’ll be a little horrified because you’re doing your duty and feeding your angelic little baby but at the same time, you really want to sleep. Don’t worry you will grow out of this soon.

Keep your standard low:

Don’t look for perfection. There is no perfect parenting anyway. It’s an adjustment time and if you are managing to keep the baby fed, and in clean diapers, and you are staying alert to any medical necessities, you are doing a great job.

Umbilical cord:

The umbilical cord stump will usually fall off during the second week; until then, give the newborn sponge baths instead of tub baths, and fold the front of the diaper down below the navel to keep the area aired and clean. If it gets dirty you may dab the stump with alcohol.

Sleep when the baby sleeps:

One cannot overemphasize this. Avoid the temptation to catch up on email/ whatsapp while the baby is sleeping. Mastering the art of power napping is a must-have skill. You never know what the night will bring, whether it’ll be a fairly restful or a horrendous one.

Be careful while carrying the baby:

Your baby’s neck muscles are fairly weak at birth. For the first few months, she’ll rely on you using your hand to support her head and neck when you hold her. Perhaps it’s nature’s way of ensuring you have lots of face-to-face interaction. As you cradle her in your arms, enjoy the chance to look into her eyes.

Get some sunlight:

It is important to get natural sunlight, dose of vitamin D, important to absorb calcium. Taking a walk outside can be very refreshing for both you and the baby, and a baby carrier can make getting around very easy and comfortable for both of you.

Second Month: All about creating a sleep cycle

As you enter the second month of motherhood, your body starts adjusting to sleep deprivation and caters to the needs of your new born. You learn that there are no rules of the game.

Help the baby differentiate between day and night

Keep the room bright during the day and play some music, avoiding playing loud music and having bright lights at night. Change your baby’s clothing at a constant schedule, as this will help them know that onesies are for playtime and night gowns are for bedtime. Swaddling at night will also help your baby to feel comfortable, warm and sleep longer.

Immunization:

Always be up to date with the shots schedule. Immunization, flu, and others are important to get during this and the next few months. You may choose to decline or postpone immunizations if baby is sick.

Third Month: Small feats of success and focusing on getting back.

Your baby has outgrown some of his clothes already and may not look like your little newborn anymore. We wish your baby may have developed a routine for sleep, feeding, and play. She is also clear about her cues, and you will probably find yourself telling people all about your baby’s particular habits, likes, and dislikes.

Feats of strength

By month three, your newborn will probably begin developing a personality all his own. Your little one is turning into a muscle man. He should be able to do some baby push-ups now. He also might be reaching for objects, smiling spontaneously and turning in the direction of your voice.  You can play peek a  boo with them.

Back to shape, back to work, back to your own identity

By now you start thinking about getting back to many things. Time to start a fitness regime – may be a walk when your child is sleeping or an instructor led session. Mornings are the best time. You also plan to resume work – return back to your employer or start something new. It is important to find a reliable childcare service provider or a care taker. Share thoughts with your spouse and take joint decisions. You could also speak to a mentor/close colleague who has gone through a similar situation to clear your thoughts. The decision should be yours and what makes you happy.

Also check out the Celebrity Tips on getting back in shape post pregnancy and some Tips to get rid of the mummy tummy.