Dealing with life as a new mum

As soon as your baby drops off, make sure you get some shut-eye too

Chill-out tips for sleep-deprived new mums

• Be realistic. Some days eating and sleeping will be your greatest achievement, but it will get better.
• Prioritise what needs doing. Only tackle the essentials, like appointments for your baby.
• Sleep or rest when your baby does. In the evening, go to bed very early, even if you have to get up to feed.
• Turn your mobile off. Constant interruptions can be frustrating so let voicemail take the strain.
• Accept all offers of help. Get friends and family to do some ironing or bring you a home-cooked meal.

Coping with crying

• Keep a diary of when your baby cries. Then build a routine that frees you up to deal with these difficult times.
• Crying is communication. It’s her way of reacting when she’s overwhelmed, so sometimes just being there is enough.
• Try a warm bath and massage, or skin-to-skin contact cuddles to reduce stress.
• Get out as much as you can. Being in supportive company will help you.
• Speak to your doctor. Excess crying can be a sign of reflux, which can be relieved with medicine and support.

Ways to ward off baby blues

• Be prepared for feeling emotional, tearful or irritable, as it’s common in the first few weeks after the birth.
• Share how you’re feeling with someone close to you, so you can get support and encouragement.
• Eat regularly as keeping your blood sugar levels even will help.
• Focus on one task at a time, as you’re more likely to achieve it and that’ll boost your confidence.
• Rest and sleep whenever you can, to give your mind and body the chance to process the impact of giving birth.

Ways to tackle mummy tiredness

• Set yourself up for the day ahead with a big bowl of porridge and a semi-cold shower.
• Prioritise sleep and rest instead of doing chores whenever you get the chance.
• Go to bed when your child does, even if you don’t get to sleep you’re still resting your body.
• Write down thoughts to clear your mind if you can’t switch off easily.
• Try deep breathing techniques. Just setting aside 10 minutes for some relaxing breathing can refresh you.

Tips to help your baby sleep

• Spot the signs. These may be a certain cry, yawn, restlessness, or going very quiet.
• Don’t wait. When your baby gives you a ‘sleepy cue’, put her down to sleep while she is still awake.
• Keep a routine. Be consistent when establishing sleep routines. Your baby will learn and expect similar routines, knowing you understand she needs sleep.
• Be patient. It may take a few minutes for your baby to settle, so give her a little time.
• Be in tune. If your baby’s tired, let her sleep. Don’t feel you have to keep her awake because it’s the ‘wrong time’.

Tips for a healthy sleep pattern for your baby

• Look for cues like a certain cry, eye rubbing, blinking or yawning that can indicate it’s time for bed.
• Put a sleepy baby to bed before he dozes off somewhere else. Otherwise he’ll be confused when he wakes up.
• A nightlight keeps a room softly lit so it’s not too dark if your baby stirs.
• Take a moment when he wakes to see if he self-soothes. Often he’ll settle again without you having to pick him up.
• Consistency with routine, even when you’re away from home, helps maintain the good work you’ve done day to day.