I'm A Mom! Now What?

Having a baby is a shock to anyone's system. Not only was there the nine or ten months of anticipation and pregnancy, you've got the whole expected, and yet, unexpected birth and delivery. When a baby is born, a mother is born as well, and she is just about as new to the situation as a new baby is.

Having a baby takes time to adjust to, and some moms handle it better than others. If you are a mom who is having a hard time getting used to the 24/7 job, don't feel bad. More moms have trouble with it than are willing to admit. There are some things that you can do though, to make the transition easier on yourself and baby. Here's how.

Enlist help for when you come home from the hospital. Don't choose people who you know will cause you stress, and don't ask for help in general. Ask for help specifically, such as seeing that your mother-in-law will make some dinners for you to put in the freezer, your sister to come vacuum once a week, and your best friend to go grocery shopping for you.

Asking for specific help will ensure that everyone knows their jobs, there isn't any stepping on of toes, and you get to spend time with your new baby and don't have to worry about the initial day-to-day tasks.

Invest in a baby sling or carrier. A baby sling can help you ease back into your daily schedule by keeping your baby close but your hands free. Baby carriers are especially invaluable to the mother of a colicky or fussy baby who loves to be held. Don't make yourself crazy by constantly having to hold your baby. Simply strap him or her into your carrier and you have free hands to check e-mail, fold laundry and if you're lucky, eat lunch.

Get out of the house if you can. As much as doctors warn you to not take your baby into public places right away, it can help to simply get out of the house and take a walk. As long as you're not going somewhere where your baby is liable to be touched by strangers, it is perfectly fine. The first few months are even a perfect time to go to the movies; your baby will most likely sleep through them, and you'll get a couple of hours out of the house to unwind.