Pregnancy and birth can be one of the most thrilling and enjoyable times of our lives! Often after finding out that we're pregnant, new moms and other birthing people will begin to daydream of precious baby names and sweet nursery themes while also stocking up on supplies, listening to podcasts, making preparations, and scrolling through social media to prepare for the physical our bodies will go through as pregnancy leads into childbirth.
In the midst of all the excitement, baby showers, and preparation its important to also take time prepare our minds and hearts and realistically think about ways you can prepare your life for the addition of this new family member. Besides, a meaningful element of mentally preparing for becoming a new mom or parent is knowing what to expect and setting your boundaries and expectations. This list contains 5 simple ways to mentally prepare for motherhood and what happens AFTER you bring home baby.
1) Plan for time to adjust - during the weeks and months after the birth of your baby, your body is still experiencing healing while also attempting to adjust to parenting. Be generous with yourself and outline your wants, needs, and expectations after birth that includes ways to encourage your recovery while also fostering a smoother transition into parenting.
2) Be prepared for everything to always be changing - your baby is new to the world and you are new to parenting your baby, things might feel chaotic before you find a steady rhythm! Its not uncommon for things to change quickly as you and your baby adapt to feeding schedules and sleeping needs.
3) Learn to be flexible - your time is now going to be dictated by your baby who does not have a solid concept of day or night yet. You might want to review your schedule for where/how you can make changes as you develop a new routine with your baby. Creating a new schedule around based on yours and your babys needs may help things feel a little less out of control.
4) Prepare for a different way of sleeping - while adjusting to your new routine with baby its not uncommon to be woken up (more than once) during the night and while some folks suggest you "sleep when the baby sleeps" many new parents find that hard to do! Instead use baby's nap time to find a way to restore a sense of yourself by either showering, eating a warm meal, cuddling with your partner, going outside for some fresh air, or play with a pet.
5) Be careful with comparisons - just as every pregnancy is different so is every child and every parent, be mindful of comparing your journey with other peoples and limit social interactions that leave you questioning yourself as a parent. Unfriend or unfollow those social media accounts that leave you feeling blah!
Becoming a mother or parent is amazing and rewarding but also challenging in its own way. No matter how much you read or prepare there will still be surprises and plenty of mistakes. You will also experience some of the greatest joys and an epic adventures you've ever had. I wish you the very best on your journey.
Interested in more ways to prepare mentally for motherhood? Join me September 9th for the first edition of the Nurtured Roots for Expectant Mothers 6 week pregnancy and postpartum cohort. I look forward to seeing you!
If you are pregnant or a new mother and you are in crisis, the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline provides free, confidential support 24/7 in English and Spanish. Call or text the hotline at
1-833-TLC-MAMA
(1-833-852-6262)
Sarah Foster is a Holistic Wellness Educator, Family Life Coach, and Full Spectrum Doula in Altamonte Spring, FL. At Sun Moon & Stars Holistic Health & Reproduction we provide whole person wellness education along with a full spectrum of support for all birthing outcomes. Any information shared on this site is for education purposes and should be used as a resource and not a source of medical advice. If you or someone you love is interested in support let's connect today!