Becoming a parent is one of the most amazing things that will happen to many. Many people say it is the happiest moment of their lives. The first few days are blissful but frustrating, your life will never be the same. But with a huge life change, everyone wants to give their opinion, but many times people don't realize their opinions might not be welcome. Here are some things you shouldn't say to a new mom.
1."Sleep when the baby sleeps!"
Do you realize babies have weird sleep schedules? They sleep every hour or so as newborns and they sleep for an hour to three hours at a time. Adults are not made to sleep like that. Also, what would get done around the house if we slept when the babies slept? Nothing, the answer is nothing!
2. "Don't co-sleep, it's dangerous."
I personally do not co-sleep much, but when I do my baby and I have some of the best sleep ever. Yes, co-sleeping can be dangerous, but done right it is safe. Many put a co-sleeper bed in the bed so they don't risk rolling on the baby. Also, if you're breastfeeding it is the easiest midnight feeding ever! All you do is roll over and pop out a boob.
3. "Breast is best."
Yes, breast is best, we all know this. It is the safest and cheapest way to feed your baby. But many women have issues breastfeeding, including myself. My son had a tongue tie and caused so much pain I would cry. We switched to trying to pump and formula together. Once his tongue tie was fixed he wouldn't latch and my supply dropped. So please stop the mom shaming, many of us feel bad already.
4. "You look so tired."
No, really? I haven't realized, I have just been sleep deprived since I went into labor. This all goes back to the weird sleep schedules of newborns. I can't sleep as much as them, even with help.
5. "Are you ready for another?"
You do realize I just spent hours in labor. I was in so much pain I can barely remember what it felt like now. I am overwhelmed beyond belief and another child is the last thing on my mind. Please ask me again when it looks like i have my stuff together.
6. "When are you going to lose the baby weight?"
Excuse me? Did you just ask when I am going to try and get my old body back? Chances are my body will never be the same, and on average it take a year to lose the weight from your first pregnancy. I was VERY lucky, I lost my weight within a couple of weeks because I had lost so much weight at the beginning of my pregnancy.
7. "Just let them cry."
Babies do not cry for no reason. They are not toddlers who cry when they don't get their way. They cry for specific reasons. They could be hungry, tired, or have a dirty diaper. I will make sure my baby knows I am there for him, I won't let him think I am not there for him.
