7 Essential Realities to Consider Before Bringing Baby Home

What is it about pregnancy that leaves many of us feeling completely unprepared for the journey ahead? The final days before giving birth can feel like you’re adrift in a tiny boat, watching an enormous wave head straight for you while you think, “I’ll just ride it out!” I was optimistic, thinking, “I’ve got this!”

But oh boy, was I in for a surprise! Maybe I was a bit too hopeful, or maybe I just didn’t get the right advice. Either way, nothing can fully prepare you for the adventure of motherhood. So, here are some reality checks I wish I’d known:

1. Birth Plans Are Not Guarantees.

I had this whole plan for a natural birth. I never imagined I’d end up with preeclampsia just a week before my due date, needing Pitocin to induce labor, antibiotics, and an epidural—while my partner held one of my legs and got an eyeful of everything happening. What a way to say goodbye to my birth plan!

2. Love at First Sight Isn’t Always the Case.

We often hear that maternal love is instinctual, but the arrival of my little one didn’t instantly fill me with love. Stress, exhaustion, and a bout of postpartum depression made it hard to connect with my newborn. It took a few weeks and some therapy before I truly felt that beautiful bond with my daughter.

3. Breastfeeding Can Be a Challenge.

Many new moms face difficulties with breastfeeding, and I was no exception. After six weeks of trying, we switched to bottles. I wish I’d sought help sooner and been kinder to myself. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant, but remember, it’s okay to prioritize your mental health too.

4. Your Body May Not Bounce Back.

I thought that once I stopped breastfeeding, my body would return to its pre-baby state. Well, my breasts went back to their original size, but the perkiness? Not so much. It’s a new normal, and I’m learning to embrace it.

5. Weight and Shape Are Different.

I hoped that with some exercise, I’d shed the extra pounds, but even when I got close to my pre-baby weight, my shape had changed completely. I realized that fitting into my old clothes didn’t mean I looked the same. I’m now in a new mom shape, and that’s perfectly fine.

6. Motherhood Doesn’t Erase Selfishness.

Moms are often depicted as self-sacrificing heroes, and I thought I’d experience a dramatic shift once my daughter arrived. But honestly, my first thought in the morning is often about coffee, not cuddling. I love my daughter, but I still find myself making daily choices between what’s best for her and what I want to do.

7. Cravings Stick Around.

I thought my cravings would vanish after pregnancy, but I still crave all the cheese! Seriously, there’s an array of cheeses in my fridge right now. I might even dream of cheese!

Looking back, I can’t help but chuckle at how naive I was. The biggest lesson? You can’t plan for the unpredictability of parenthood. The most important thing is loving and caring for your child, and that makes all the unexpected moments easier to handle. For more insights on this journey, check out this article or learn more about at-home insemination options with this kit. And if you’re looking for solid resources on fertility, this site is a great place to start.

In summary, prepare for surprises, embrace your new reality, and remember that love is what truly matters in the end.