Parenting
By Jessica Lane
Updated: Dec. 14, 2023
Originally Published: Dec. 13, 2023
Let’s cut the pretense and admit it: the initial two months with a newborn can be downright unbearable. Seriously. As a devoted mother, I would go to great lengths for my little ones. I’ve faced the challenges of marriage, baby-related heartache, and the emotional rollercoaster of a miscarriage, only to experience a tumultuous pregnancy with my second child. I am incredibly grateful for my two healthy daughters and everything that has led to their arrival. However, it baffles me why so many people hesitate to openly discuss how difficult this period can be, even while rocking a colicky baby at 2:30 a.m. It doesn’t mean you love your child any less; it simply highlights the reality of being human and occasionally overwhelmed.
While many surround the arrival of a baby with euphoric sentiments, the less glamorous truths often go unspoken. Why is that? When someone asks, “How’s motherhood treating you?” wouldn’t it be refreshing to respond with honesty? Instead of the usual, “It’s wonderful, I’ve never felt happier,” how about saying, “You know what, it’s actually pretty tough. Everyone is sleep-deprived, I can’t remember the last time I ate a proper meal, and I’m covered in various fluids.”
The first two months can feel like you’re stuck in quicksand while trying to juggle slippery watermelons. Here’s a glimpse of what you might experience:
- You’re so exhausted that a three-hour sleep stretch feels like winning the lottery.
- Anyone who suggests, “Just sleep when the baby sleeps” might as well be speaking another language.
- You find yourself jotting down every feeding time because your memory is such a mess that you could easily forget the last time you fed that tiny human relying on you.
- You’ve lost track of when you last showered.
- Everything your partner does seems to irritate you, and really, everything everyone does gets on your nerves.
- You have this incredibly precious life in your arms, yet all they do is cry, eat, sleep, and poop.
- If you’re breastfeeding, you’re up every few hours, and dealing with the painful reality of sore, cracked nipples.
- Your wardrobe consists solely of clothing stained with unidentifiable bodily fluids.
- You can’t tell if it’s a weekday or weekend—time has lost all meaning.
- Even in silence, you hear crying because your sanity is slipping away.
- The laundry is piling up, but you’re busy dealing with dirty diapers.
This list is just a small taste of what’s in store. The reality is, the first two months with a newborn is chaotic—both literally and figuratively. If you’re a new mom, hang in there; what you’re feeling is completely normal, and there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. That moment when the baby finally sleeps through the night will feel like a luxurious getaway (or at least a solo trip to the store).
For those supporting new moms, consider bringing a large coffee and offering to help with chores. Encourage her to take a much-needed shower while you watch the baby, who will probably sleep soundly during this time.
Let’s drop the act and acknowledge that those first two months can be downright impossible. It’s crucial to recognize that we’re all in this together, mamas. If you’re curious about home insemination options, check out this artificial insemination kit for more information. For further insights on pregnancy, visit Modern Family Blog, a reputable source on this topic. Also, for a comprehensive look at various treatments, you can explore this resource from WebMD.
Summary
The journey of the first two months with a newborn is often overwhelming, filled with sleepless nights and countless challenges. It’s essential to be honest about the difficulties of new motherhood while also recognizing the joy that comes with it. Support from friends and family can make a world of difference during this chaotic time.