New mothers and expectant mothers: Advice and encouragement

Here is some "real-mom" advice from women who have been there:

"It is so hard since you are transitioning into a mother not to lose yourself. Be sure to somehow find time for you and for your husband. And, don't feel like since you are the mother you have to do everything yourself, either.

Try not to compare your child to others. That is SO hard to do when other moms start saying "My child has been walking now for months and yours is still crawling." Don't panic. It will all come with time."

- Lori, mother of 1


"Do not hide your true feelings. I had severe depression after having my daughter. I thought it was my hormones, lack of sleep, feeling overwhelmed, and adjusting to my new life. I know that was all part of it, but after 2 months I knew I needed some help. It is amazing how medicine can help so much."

- Michele, mother of 1


“If you’re nursing, buy nipple cream!!!!

If you’re nursing and working, don’t use a one-sided manual pump, it’s not effective.

If you’re nursing and working, pump at the same time or at the same intervals or you’ll dry up.
If you’re nursing and working, get your baby used to using a bottle intermittently at least a week before you return. Your babysitter will appreciate it."

- Stephanie, mother of 2


Originally posted on New Mom Central.

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[new mothers]
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Expectant Mothers and First-time Moms-- Some "Real" Advice from "Real Live" Moms

Here is some advice from some "real live" moms on making the transition to motherhood:

"Forget the pressure of breastfeeding. Do what works for you and your baby."
Bernadette, mother of 2

"Ask guests to bring something in (like a meal) or take something out (like the garbage) when they visit during the early months after birth."
Melanie Bowden, mother of 2, postpartum doula, author of Why Didn't Anyone Tell Me? and Spit Up On My Shoulder

"There's no such thing as perfect. Lower your standards, and you'll be amazed at how happy you can be with less."
Christine Louise Hohlbaum, mother of 2, Editor of "Powerful Families, Powerful Lives" newsletter; Author of Diary of a Mother, SAHM I Am: Tales of a Stay-at-Home Mom in Europe, and Mama’s Musings

"Things will get better after a while."
Stephanie, mother of 3

"Put yourself first. Carve out time for yourself. If you're not happy or taken care of it's more stressful. Also, if you're breastfeeding, take your husband with you to the class."
Pam, mother of 2



Original post on New Mom Central.