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8 Ways Dads can Help a New Mom
Being a parent is not an easy task, especially for new mothers. It's not easy to be a parent for the first time. Expecting mothers are expected to do the hard work for nine months, miraculously raising a baby and then going through the painstaking process of childbirth. Then, there is the frustrating and sometimes messy aspect of breastfeeding and dealing with hormonal changes after childbirth.
Mothers who are new mothers go through a lot. You may be wondering how you can help a new mom in the first few days, weeks, and months. These are some ways that you can support and make the mother's life easier after she brings home a baby.
Let her have some "me" time.
Even new moms need a break from their babies every now and again. You can help your mum by taking her baby out of her care for a few minutes each day as a dad. You could, for example, dress your baby in a Onesies® Brand Bodysuit (with additional layers depending on the weather) and take a short stroll together. This will allow mom to get a quick shower, grab a snack, and take some time for herself.
Tell her she's doing an amazing job.
Motherhood can be a very difficult job. Your partner will feel like an absolute failure at some point. She needs to remind herself that she is doing an amazing job. Are you showing up for your baby? That's enough. Let her know she is enough.
Maintain a Clean and Tidy Home.
A new mom's mood can be greatly affected by reducing clutter in her home. A study published in Personality & Social Psychology Bulletin showed that women who describe their home as cluttered have higher levels of cortisol and a lower mood throughout the day.
We know it is hard to keep a clean house with a newborn. It's amazing that such a small human can produce so much mess and laundry! If you want to help a mom de-stress, make sure your home is tidy.
Make sure she eats.
For breastfeeding moms, proper nutrition is essential. A nutritious diet can boost mom's milk production, increase her energy and improve her mood. Make sure mum has enough calories. You can stock your fridge with ready-to eat meals. Both mom and baby will be happier if she is properly nourished.
Lighten Her Mental Load.
As a dad, one of the most important things you can do is to lighten mom's mental load. What is the mental burden? It is the invisible labor involved in the management of the household and childrearing.
It is possible to lighten the load of a new mother by anticipating her needs. Do you need to take out the trash? Do it before she asks. Is she talking about daycare for her baby lately? Research daycares in your local area and be prepared to join the conversation. You can all work together to conquer cognitive labor.
You can be a good listener.
Listen to your partner, and be patient with them during the first few weeks of being at home. Due to hormonal changes, she's likely feeling many emotions. Ask her if you can offer any advice, or just listen to what she has to say. You will both save a lot of frustration.
Watch For Signs Of Postpartum Depression.
Most moms will experience the "babyblues" within a week of giving birth (70 to 80 percent). The baby blues last for about two weeks, and they are usually mild.
However, postpartum depression (PPD) is a more severe condition that can prove fatal for both moms and fathers. Yes, dads can also experience postpartum depression. Talk openly with your partner to encourage you to seek help when you need it.
Take Tons of Pictures
Do you have your phone with you? Next, take a photo of your baby and mum. You can take many pictures of them together. You probably have a lot of photos of you and your baby together. But what about the baby and you? We're not talking about unflattering selfies. You are her partner and the love in your life.
Take a photo of mum rocking her baby to sleep or reading to her baby the next time you are there. You should capture that moment before it is too late. It's so quick to get through the newborn stage. Your baby will be so happy to have photos that she can look back at and remember how tiny she was.
Being a supportive father and partner
It can be hard for a father to know how to support a mom. If you're reading this, you already know you're halfway there. Remember that you know your partner best. Start by identifying the gestures that she loves most, and then go from there. Oh, and by the way--congratulations!
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