Your baby is finally here!
Estimated reading time:
After nine exciting months, the time has finally come – your baby is here! The birth is over, and now a whole new adventure begins. In the first hours and days, there is so much to discover, feel, and learn. Here are some helpful tips on what to expect and how to enjoy your first moments together with your baby in a relaxed way.
Directly after birth, skin-to-skin contact with your baby is especially important. This so-called "bonding moment" promotes the parent-child bond and gives your baby a sense of security.
Advantages:
- Regulates the baby's body temperature and heartbeat.
- Promotes breastfeeding and a sense of security.
- Supports the emotional bond between parents and child.
Tip: Enjoy this special moment and don’t rush – this is your first time together as a family.
Many babies look for the mother’s breast shortly after birth. Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to nourish the baby while building closeness at the same time. If you use bottle feeding, it is also an opportunity for intense cuddle moments.
Tip: Patience is required! Starting breastfeeding can be a small challenge, but midwives are there to provide advice and support.
Shortly after birth, your baby will be examined by a doctor or midwife. This includes, among other things, the APGAR test, which checks breathing, pulse, reflexes, muscle tone, and skin color.
Tip: Don’t worry if your baby looks a little wrinkled at first – after birth, the skin needs some time to smooth out.
Newborns sleep a lot, but often only in short stretches. Your baby may wake up more frequently at night to be breastfed or soothed.
Tip: Use the quiet times to recharge yourself – sleep when the baby sleeps!
The first stool of a newborn, called meconium, is usually black and sticky. Don’t worry, this is completely normal and will change over the next few days.
Tip: Always be gentle when changing diapers and use wet wipes or lukewarm water to protect your baby’s sensitive skin.
Everyone wants to meet the new family member, but too many visits can be stressful in the first few days. Take the time you need and communicate your wishes openly.
Tip: Visits can also be postponed – there is no rush!
After birth, emotions can go on a rollercoaster. This is completely normal, as the hormonal changes and new challenges can be overwhelming for many parents.
Tip: Talk openly about your feelings and make time for yourselves consciously.
