Caring for your newborn during the first few weeks at home can be overwhelming, especially for new moms. Before your baby's delivery, make arrangements for a family member or neighbor to help you for a couple of weeks with light housekeeping & laundry, caring for your other children, preparing meals, and running errands.

Some tips to help you during your first week home with your baby include:

1. Rest while your baby is sleeping! It is tempting to use this time to get things done, but resist this temptation, knowing that your body needs rest for your physical and emotional health.

2. Set out a casserole in the morning, that you have stored in the freezer, to thaw & cook for dinner. Enjoy left overs for lunch the next day!

2. Get outside for fresh air and sunshine, with your baby snuggled in a baby sling, whether it be a short stroll around the block, or time in your backyard or patio.

3. Drink plenty of water each day to stay hydrated. The Institute of Medicine recommends that women who breast-feed consume about 13 cups of fluids a day.

4. Watch your baby for signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or other concerns, and call the pediatrician for advice.

5. Take time to bond with your baby, making sure to include daddy, too!

 
Written by: Shelley Scheibel, RN, BSN

References:
http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/newborn_care/guide_parents.html#
http://www.babycenter.com/0_first-24-hours-at-home-with-your-baby_10345806.bc
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/water/NU00283/NSECTIONGROUP=2
http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/newborn_care/jaundice.htm