It's almost impossible to put into words the joy and elation you feel when you finally get to hold and cuddle the baby you have carried for nine months.
But the newborn stage can also be challenging as you get to grips with becoming a parent and learn how to soothe and comfort your newborn.
One thing you have to get used to is the sound of crying, as concerning and upsetting as that can sometimes be.
Crying to communicate
Your baby cries to communicate, whether that be hunger, pain, discomfort, tiredness, or a wet or dirty diaper, and you will quickly learn to differentiate the cries.
But that is little comfort, especially if you're a first-time parent.
My second born daughter would cry for hours during the night. I would do everything I know, but still the baby wouldn't stop crying.
Learning how to cope
This period was so challenging that if I didn’t have people around me to help, my mental health would have suffered.
So while it is important to understand that babies do cry, here are some of the ways you can help soothe a crying newborn:
- Check the baby’s temperature: If your baby is unwell, they may cry and be fussy. Call a doctor or take them to hospital if they are spiking a temperature and you're concerned.
- Change their diaper: A baby will cry if their diaper is wet, dirty or too tight. It is also good to check for any sign of a rash.
- Check for colic: This is the most common reason your infant may cry a lot. You can speak to your doctor about different formula or medication. If you are breastfeeding, your nutritionist may advise you on the type of foods you can avoid as a mother to help reduce colic. I was advised to reduce wheat products in my diet, as well as carbonated drinks. This actually helped reduce colic in my baby. Holding your baby upright when feeding and gentle tummy massages could also help. The good news also is that colic doesn't last forever.
- Another feed: Your baby may be crying just because they're still hungry.
- Rock and move around: Babies love being held and rocked as you walk around as it mimics their time in the womb.
- Sleep: Your child may be fussy and cry when they are tired. I would sing for my little girl until she fell asleep.
- A warm bath: A warm bath may work wonders for your child.
- Put your child in a stroller and take a walk: Or put your baby in a car seat and drive around. Babies calm down when they feel motion.
Ask for help
If you have tried all of the above and your baby is still crying - but you're certain they aren't ill - make sure to call a friend or a relative who can come and help.
An overtired and frustrated mom is no good for baby, so it's important you lean on loved ones for support.
My daughter would cry relentlessly, so I used to call my sister to help while I'd go out for a 10-minute walk.
When to call a doctor
Your mom gut will tell you when something is wrong. Make sure to check your baby's temperature and consider any other symptoms they might have (like diarrhea for example).
If they are developing a fever or you feel concerned, call your doctor or take your baby to hospital to rule out any underlying conditions.
Ask for help
Taking care of your newborn can be challenging at times, but remember to ask for help and don't neglect your own mental health and wellbeing.