I had been struggling with feeding him, which led to a lot of tears and frustration, because I just wanted to feed my crying baby! I went to a lactation consultant and she helped me quite a bit. So now he is finally getting fully fed and having a full belly! I am actually getting a decent amount of sleep, which is helping with my mental state :-) I was scared I was starting to get depressed because everything just seemed so hard and so overwhelming. Sleep makes a world of difference!
People brought us so much food, even full Thanksgiving dinner, so we haven't had to go grocery shopping at all since we've been home. However, not all of the food has been terribly healthy. I'll be a lot of pie and pizza in the past few days, haha. Not exactly how I wanted to start off my post-parting eating but I've just been looking for easy, truthfully.
As the pain decreases and we get used to this new phase of life, I plan to get more involved with food shopping and prepping. Right now, I am just pleased to let people bring me food and not worry about it.
Also, I can see the beginnings of my body coming back. Not like it was, obviously, but I don't feel so humongous anymore. I am definitely having some body image issues as I look at some very specific trouble areas that have occurred because of this pregnancy though!!
I haven't weighed myself, but I'm going to my doctor tomorrow for a check up and they will weigh me then. So I'll see where I stand. My highest pregnancy weight was 166 pounds, I started my pregnancy and 126 pounds. A 40 pound gain - not the best, not the worst.
I'll check in again soon!
I always found a "nest" helpful. A spot set up where I had everything ready to nurse. Pillows to support my lower back and arms and the weight of the baby. The TV remote. Water. An ottoman or big footstool to support my legs and feet. A Kleenex box. A blanket.
ReplyDeleteIf people ask you what they can bring, and they will, tell them cooked meat and plain veggies. When you get moving again, frozen veggies from the store can be your best friend, they are quick and easy. A pan full of plain chicken breasts in oven is also simple and will hold you for days. Be careful of too many raw veggies or apples.
Drink a lot of water.
Truly, sleep when the baby sleeps. It makes such a difference.
I would not look in the mirror for a while. And that number on the scale is not going to mean anything yet, you just had major surgery. You might be smart to have them write it down in their records, for later, but not tell you. You can get on the scale backwards so you don't see it.
Very glad you saw a lactation consultant. If you continue to have difficulties, see her again. And again. Breastfeeding is not as automatic as people think, often information makes a huge difference.
Tell your husband what he can do to help. My hubby always says - just tell me what TO DO, not what not to do. Exactly what you want from store, loads in washer, clutter patrol, back rub, dog hair, whatever. Makes a big difference in everyone's frustration level.
I'm so happy for you and Chris! Congrats, Mom! xoxo
ReplyDeleteGet used to a new normal... there is so much to adjust to so don't worry right now about food and getting everything right. Enjoy you beautiful little boy and the new family that you have become.
ReplyDeleteAwww you are doing a great job! Never mind about the foods. Eat, snuggle, sleep ! Enjoy.
ReplyDeleteThose first few weeks were such an emotional roller coaster for me. Pretty sure it's the hormones! I cried a lot too. :)
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