What should I know about labor & postpartum?

Question

I’m a first time mom & I’m currently in my last trimester. I don’t really have family or friends I can ask about these things? Is there anything I should know or be prepared for? Also I honestly don’t know much about any of this, so “advice for dummies” is probably what I’m aiming for lol. I read stuff on here all the time & literally have know idea what they’re talking about 😬 I feel really unprepared & I don’t even know what to begin to try & look up on the internet. I still have a good 2 months to go so I have some time to educate myself, thankfully 🤣

Answer

Read about the 4th trimester. Something I wished I knew about after having my son xx

Answer

I’d recommend looking up videos on YouTube like “realistic postpartum” or things like that. Or even just preparing for postpartum. Everyone is so incredibly different though so I’d just say don’t compare yourself to others! Some people get right into the swing of things quickly while others have a learning curve. Just be gentle on yourself and have realistic expectations I would say. Don’t expect to be able to go back to pre-baby routines around the house with a newborn right away for example. Having realistic expectations I think helped me mentally the most since I wasn’t constantly worried about why I didn’t get this or that accomplished.

Answer

I'd suggest getting some good books about what to expect when you're expecting, and postpartum books or find some good online resources and start reading constantly. When you come across something on here you don't understand or know look it up and read about it.

Answer

Have a "warning signs" list readily hanging somewhere in the house. Include medical, baby blues, PPD and postpartum psychosis warning signs. It's so freaking easy to dismiss red flags in those early days. 
Epsom salt/sitz baths are spectacular. Do not forget and do not allow yourself to not practice self care. Dads are perfectly capable of watching their child for 30min-hour while you shower. This is a necessity for your mental health (and hygiene). A ship will sink and lose its cargo  if not maintained properly. Your baby is the most precious cargo, so YOU must be taken care of as well.

Answer

I would look through kelly mom website, be ready to know how to  hand express at first and move on to learning about latching if your going to breastfeed or not.

What should I know about labor & postpartum?

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