Michelle Obama recently shared some great information on The Bump about how the Affordable Care Act can help new and expecting mothers receive coverage from everything from maternity care through pediatrician visits (you can check out the article here for more information). But, what may stand out even more is that the First Lady shared what it felt like for her to be expecting her first baby.
In her own words, she says that during her pregnancy she felt “excitement, wonder, hope… and the occasional moment of panic at the prospect of bringing this little person into the world.” In addition, she remembers asking herself: “Would our little girl be able to tell that we had no what we were doing?”
In a word, she felt overwhelmed!
How many of us can relate to this myriad of feelings? And, how great does it feel to know that even a powerful, confident woman like Michelle Obama has felt like this, too?
The important thing to take away from this is that it is completely normal to feel overwhelmed about having a new baby. This adventure is going bring you joy and love in ways that you’ve never experienced them, but it will also turn your world upside down in more ways than you can imagine. There may be times during your pregnancy, and after, when you start to wonder what you have gotten yourself into!
Let yourself experience these emotions as much as you need to and don’t be afraid to talk to your partner, family, or friends about them. If they are parents themselves, they will certainly be able to relate. One thing that can be a tremendous asset during the early days with your new baby can be adding a doula to your postpartum team. Postpartum doulas are there to help you rest, recover, and reassure you that you are being the best mother you can be! They can help you to understand why your newborn acts they way do and give you a great practical education, such as how to bathe, dress, diaper, and feed your baby. Additionally, they can give you the extra time you need to relax and spend time bonding with your new bundle of joy by taking care of your laundry and dishes, making sure you have healthy snacks nearby, and cooking you a delicious meal. Of course, they also provide you with a listening ear if any of those overwhelming feelings creep up again.
Having a new baby is a big transition – don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. And, remember that all new parents are learning as they go, even the First Family!
