How to cope with being a new mom

Being a new mom is one of the most exciting and rewarding times of a woman’s life. Your new baby has arrived, and after months of waiting, you are ready to start raising your special little person. But being a new parent can also be hard work. Sleepless nights and endless housework can take their toll on you.

Tackle the fatigue

Don’t expect to stay in your usual routine. Your baby will need your care and attention throughout the day and night. Broken sleep will leave you feeling tired and drained, so try to sleep when your baby does.

There’s no shame in having an afternoon nap or a mid-morning siesta. If you’re tired out, take every chance to catch up on sleep. It will leave you feeling refreshed and revived. If you really don’t feel that you can sleep during the day, at least sit down with a hot drink and a magazine–use your baby’s nap time to relax.

Call in the family

If you have family members who live with you or live nearby, call on them when you need a break. Of course you don’t want to spend a minute away from your precious one, but everyone needs some me-time, new moms included. Ask your relatives to babysit while you get some shopping in, catch up on housework, or just put your feet up for half an hour in peace.

You could also spend some time with your husband or partner away from the new stresses of parenthood. Go out for a meal, see a movie, or visit friends and take some time out to keep your relationship alive. Friends and family will be happy to help, so don’t be afraid to ask for some time off.

Ditch the housework

Don’t worry about the housework. There will be things that are important to have done but other things that you don’t need to tackle just yet. It doesn’t matter if your house doesn’t look like a show home. You have enough to do, looking after your new baby. Let other members of your household help with the chores for a change.

Stock up on easy-to-prepare, nutritional meals so that you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. Choose healthy options to keep your vitamin levels up, and leave the washing up to someone else!

Make the most of this special time as a new mom and enjoy your new baby. Catch up on sleep, call in the family, and ditch the housework. Things will get easier as your baby grows up and settles into a routine. After a few months, you’ll be a star mom and will wonder what the fuss was about!