Things You Definitely Wish You Knew as a New Mom

Things You Definitely Wish You Knew as a New Mom

There's so much to learn when you're a new mom, and no matter how much time you spend researching, you're bound to learn a few things the hard way.

Being a mom is the most rewarding experience of my life. But, just because it's amazing doesn't mean it's not also pretty darn hard. And when I became a mom for the first time, I had no idea what I was doing. Here are some things I wish someone had told me before I became a mom:

The Baby

It can be hard for a new parent to know if their baby is hungry. Often it's very obvious when you've got a loud, crying baby in your arms, but other times the signs are more subtle. Some babies don't cry at all when they're hungry, and instead will simply turn their head towards your breast or bottle as a sign that they'd like to eat.

Babies also show hunger by sucking on their hands or making mouthing motions, which is how they'll eventually feed themselves when they're older.

Breastfeeding in public is something that may take some getting used to. Remember that you're doing what's best for your baby, and don't let anyone shame you!

Your baby gets hungry at very inconvenient times, like in the middle of the night and during a work meeting (or at least, it'll feel like that). If your baby isn't old enough for solid food yet, try keeping a bottle of breast milk on hand for those times when your partner can't feed them.

You might not think that your baby will have an opinion about their clothes, but you'd be surprised. Putting them in an outfit that makes them uncomfortable can make them fuss, so stick with stretchy fabrics and soft colors until they get a bit older.

Babies are notorious for wearing through clothes quickly, especially since they tend to spit up frequently.

Changing your baby's diaper on the go is easier than it seems, but you'll want to use a good travel changing pad.

Everyone should have a special place to put their baby down when they need both hands—preferably somewhere soft and close by so they can keep an eye on them without having to hold them constantly.

A diaper bag is a must for every parent. When you have to leave the house with your baby, there's so much you need to bring: diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, and so on. Plus, you want to ensure that your baby is happy and comfortable on the go. To make it easier for you to keep everything in one place and ensure that you have everything you need before leaving the house with your child, consider these items for your diaper bag:

- Hand sanitizer

- Diapers (at least five)

- Wipes (at least two packs)

- Pacifier (two)

- Toys (three or four of varying types)

- Bibs (two or three)

- Clothes, Baby hat, including socks and shoes

The Mom

Let yourself be surprised, some days are going to go better than you'd ever imagined, and some days are going to be worse than you could have expected. Let yourself feel both of those feelings—and know that it's all part of being a parent.

It can be tough sometimes—but there are plenty of resources available, and you'll get the hang of it!

You may notice that you lose your appetite.

This is totally normal and nothing to worry about. Don't feel like eating? That's okay! Just rest and focus on getting your strength back.

You will not get much sleep, at all. It's one of those things that other mothers will tell you but you won't fully understand until you do it yourself.

You will eventually run out of clean clothes for both yourself and your baby (and potentially your significant other). You are a human being! Take care of yourself!

Your house will be messier than it's ever been before, and that's okay! It’s okay to get frustrated or upset about something... but don't beat yourself up for feeling that way!

Remember that everyone struggles sometimes. Your feelings are completely valid and you don't have to feel embarrassed about them!

You will make mistakes—and that's okay! Your child is going to love you no matter what happens in life; don't worry about being perfect all the time because that's not possible for anyone!

Accept help.

Don't try to do everything on your own, even if your instinct is to do so. Try to accept help from family and friends whenever they offer it!

In fact, ask for help when you need it too. If you don't want to impose on family and friends, hire a babysitter, housekeeper, or any other service provider who could make your life easier. Being a new mom doesn't mean you can't take advantage of the resources around you!