Things I wish I knew before becoming a parent
“Breast is best”
Breast milk is great and has a lot of benefits for your baby, your body will specifically cater to your child's needs and formulate milk that will be nutritious for your baby. I knew that I wanted to exclusively breastfeed from the time I found out i was expecting. However, as much as I wanted to exclusively breastfeed my first born, it just was not happening for me. I felt like I did not have an adequate supply of milk to feed my baby and her being so frustrated resulted in a family member getting me formula in the middle of the night as I struggled to understand why my baby was crying. She drank the milk and fell asleep with a full belly. It felt like a huge relief but also made me feel so guilty for not understanding her cues. So sometimes it's not “breast is best” but fed is best. You'll also notice that it makes it easier for your partner or other family members to get involved and allow you to have some time to yourself during recovery.
No need for the expensive newborn outfits
If I could see how uncomfortable my newborn looked in the future before buying all those cute little outfits, I would have saved a whole lot of money. You'll notice how you're gravitating towards the sleepsuits and the sleeveless vests when dressing up your baby. I would recommend getting good quality basics for your baby that will still look great after a wash and dry. Leave the baby designer alone. I know it's cute but is very impractical
If you feel like something is wrong, you're probably right
As paranoid as first-time parents can be, the one message I found to be constantly repeated to me by my healthcare providers is to listen to my intuition. It's in your maternal instinct to know when something is off. Although we may not have the degree or knowledge about what something may be exactly, you should always be a loud advocate for you and your baby. I know this may sound extreme, but it could be a life and death situation.
Practice Safe sleep
Safe sleep is crucial for infants, as it significantly reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related dangers. By following safe sleep practices like placing babies on their backs on firm mattresses in their own cribs, we can create a safer sleep environment and give them the best chance to thrive. Ensure you read all instructions for the baby gadgets you'll be using and comply with the instructions given. When buying sleep safe baby products do your research and ask your healthcare professional for their opinion also.
Children can put a strain on your relationship with your partner
Being sleep deprived, not nourishing your body with the right foods will only make you feel agitated by things that usually would not get on your nerves. You may find that you're both snapping at each other or just don't feel as connected. I know it's difficult especially in the newborn stage, but you must create some time for one another. Be patient, empathetic and show compassion towards one another. You are on the same team
Don't lose yourself
You must look after your mental health and your identity as an individual. It really has a ripple effect, looking after you means you're able to give your children the best version of yourself. It's the message I will always push, do something small for yourself each day that makes you feel like YOU! E.g. do your hair and makeup, take the 10-minute exercise class, have a coffee, whatever it is do it. You have to be a little selfish so that you can give your all throughout the day.
You can find great things on second hand platforms
I know it can sound a little grungy, but as someone who has sold things that are brand knew for a fraction of the price. You can find the exact product you wanted for a fraction of the price. So, head over to Facebook marketplace, Vinted, Ebay etc before making a big purchase and you may find the product you wanted for less.
Just because its expensive it doesn't mean your baby will like it
As parents we want the very best for our children. Especially first-time parents, you'll find yourself buying the most unnecessary items just because. I spent hundreds of pounds on state-of-the-art baby products for my baby to prefer the cheaper option that might have been gifted to me or a gadget she tried out at a friend's house. Bottom line is that babies really have their own preference buy the best but at a reasonable price because there is a possibility they won't like it as much as you do.
You will get a lot of unsolicited advice from everyone
When I say everyone, I mean it. Friends, family, strangers, the whole lot. Take in what is necessary and politely dismiss whatever information is no use to you. You know your baby better than anyone else, trust your instincts and take the advice you get with a pinch of salt.
“Somethings you’ll only be able to understand when you’re in the thick of it “
~ Diamond, founder of Mumfidence