Women look forward to pregnancy and the birth of a new little one for good reason. Nothing is better than bringing a new life into the world. However, doing so also comes with challenges. What are some challenges new moms face? How can they overcome these challenges?

Baby Blues

Seventy-five percent of women experience the baby blues in the two weeks following the birth of their child. Some women have mild symptoms, while other women find them to be severe. Talk with the doctor about these symptoms. Hormonal changes in the body bring them on, and the baby blues typically resolve on their own. 

Postpartum Depression

However, some new moms struggle with postpartum depression or Postpartum mood disorder, which extends well beyond the two weeks seen with the baby blues. The doctor can help navigate this difficult time and offer treatment options. Family and friends should also step in to help the mom as she deals with this problem.

Lack of Sleep

Babies need nourishment regularly and only sleep for a few hours at a time. Mom doesn’t get much sleep either, as she is up with the baby. Most babies outgrow the two-hour feeding schedule after the first few weeks of life. However, not all do. Keep in mind this sleep pattern won’t last long, and try to nap when the baby does. The household chores can wait, and family and friends can visit another time. Sleep needs to be a priority for the new mom.

Postpartum Loneliness

Some women find they feel lonely after their baby is born. They are up in the middle of the night with the baby when nobody else is awake. While other women have had babies, this is their child and they must be the mom at all times. No woman should take on this role alone. Ask for help. Allow others to take the baby while you engage in some self-care. Ask others to pitch in as well. Most people are happy to help if they know what the new mom wants and needs.

Inability to Nurse

Countless moms struggle to breastfeed. While everyone talks about how natural it is, they don’t talk about the challenges that come with nursing a child. Some babies cannot latch on because of a medical issue, the mom may not be able to produce enough milk, or the baby may react negatively to the mom’s milk. Talk to the pediatrician and a lactation consultant to determine why this is happening and how to fix it.

Problems Seen with Breastfeeding

Engorgement, cracked nipples, and other issues might arise with breastfeeding. Consult with a lactation specialist for help with these problems and others. With this person’s help, most moms find nursing their infant becomes easier.

Getting Back Into Shape

A woman’s body doesn’t return to her pre-pregnancy shape overnight. In fact, she is going to have to work at getting it back to this shape, and it will still take time and effort. Embrace this body because it won’t be around forever. It has done the wonderful thing of carrying a baby to term and bringing it into this world. Consider the changes in the body as a badge of honor. Find clothes that fit the new body and follow the doctor’s instructions regarding exercise and diet. With their help, getting back into shape won’t be as challenging.

Being a mother isn’t easy, and the journey is only starting. However, it is worth every minute as a mom watches her children grow up to be contributing members of society. It all starts with the newborn phase, so enjoy every minute while it lasts. It will be over before you know it.