birthTIPS for partners
Just as a new mother's physical needs will vary from woman to woman, so to will her emotional needs. Most women experience a range of emotions soon after the birth (as may you). These can range from being on an amazing high, to feeling numb, or exhausted.
Many women will describe the early days as a 'roller coaster' of feelings and reactions, often experiencing sudden mood swings (known as the '
the blues'), around days 3 to 4 after the birth. At this time, she may feel anxious and be teary. These reactions usually evolve from not only the sheer enormity of giving birth, but also from the dramatic hormonal changes that are occurring within her body during this time, as her hormones adjust, and her breasts start producing milk. It is not uncommon in the early weeks for the woman to feel confident at some times, and unsure at others, as she learns about feeding and caring for your new baby (as you will experience as you become involved in your baby's care).
Partners can sometimes feel lost, or overwhelmed, as to how best they can support their partner when she expresses her emotions. Providing meaningful support can at times be challenging, because often she cannot even explain why she is crying, or feeling the way that she is. Some 'pearls of wisdom' from other fathers suggest that by just physically holding her when she cries, or if she feels uncertain, can often be all that is needed, to make her feel you are 'with her' at this time. Some women do not experience the obvious emotional ups and downs of '
the blues' after giving birth, but you can cuddle her anyway!
Feeding and caring for a new baby presents a steep learning curve for most women (and their partners). This can be made quite difficult, confusing and frustrating if she is receiving conflicting
advice from professional caregivers, or well- meaning family and friends.