The Well-Meaning Helpers Who Don’t Actually Help
Remember how, during your pregnancy, everyone promised to come by and lend a hand once the baby arrived? What they really meant was they’d swing by to coo over your little one while you shuffle around, exhausted, trying to manage the chores they said they’d handle. So thoughtful of them, right? Now you can stress about feeding your precious baby while they cuddle her until she cries.
The Guests Who Think They’re on Holiday
These are the cousins or old friends who can’t wait to meet the baby and decide to crash at your place under the guise of “helping.” However, they expect you to cater to them while you’re simply trying to survive on minimal sleep. Laundry? Cooking? Why would they do that when they’re supposedly on vacation? And of course, they’ll come barging in at ungodly hours just as you manage to get your baby to sleep. Lovely!
The Friends Who Show Up Late
“We’ll be over at noon with lunch!” they promise. Great! You’re starving and can’t wait for a meal. But as the clock ticks past noon, you start to imagine the glorious nap you could have taken. By 1 p.m., your hunger and exhaustion will have transformed you into a sleep-deprived Hulk. “WHERE ARE MY SANDWICHES?!”
The Cake-Bearing Friend
At first, you’ll appreciate the gesture. Who doesn’t love a treat when they’re nursing? But come 3 a.m., when you’re standing in the kitchen, half-awake, devouring a coffee cake with one hand while rocking your fussy baby with the other, regret will set in. You’ll wonder why someone would bring such temptation into your life.
The WebMD Obsessive
In those early days, everything is a bit daunting. You might feel swollen and sore, and every little thing the baby does seems concerning. However, when you start Googling at 4 a.m., the results can send you into a panic. “Did I somehow develop a rare disease after giving birth?” Spoiler: You’re probably fine; just put the phone down!
The Thoughtless Sick Guests
These are the ones who show up with sniffles and coughs, insisting they’re not contagious. Just as you’re about to ask them to wash their hands, they’re already reaching for your newborn. It’s the worst feeling to worry about your baby getting sick while also dealing with a cranky infant.
The Criticizing Mother Figure
Whether it’s your mom, an aunt, or a friend, there’s always someone who believes they know best. “Why don’t you just do it this way?” they’ll ask, while you’re barely managing to keep it together. You’ll find yourself wanting to shout, “Why don’t you just let me figure it out?”
The Soundly Sleeping Partner
In those chaotic early weeks, you may find that while you’re waking at the slightest whimper from your baby, your partner is blissfully snoozing through the chaos. It’s utterly maddening, especially when they dare to complain about their sleepiness. What on earth could they possibly be tired from?
The Pregnant You Who Skipped Kegels
You took those prenatal classes, sure, but let’s be honest: you probably didn’t do your Kegels as often as you should have. Then, post-birth, you realize the unfortunate truth when you experience a little accident. Surprise!
The Persistent UPS Delivery Guy
If your baby arrives just before the holidays, you’ll be well-acquainted with the doorbell’s incessant ringing. Whether you’re finally getting a moment to yourself or trying to manage a diaper change, there he is, ringing the bell right on cue. “Just leave the package!”
In summary, the journey of new parenthood can be both thrilling and exhausting, and certain people can unintentionally add to the stress. Surround yourself with supportive folks, and don’t forget to take care of yourself during this transition. For more insights on this topic, check out one of our other blog posts at Intracervical Insemination. When you’re considering options for conception, look to Make a Mom for expert advice, and refer to the CDC for reliable information on pregnancy and home insemination.