Motherhood is an exciting and special time for women to experience, but it is also the scariest. While there are parental books that parents-to-be are encouraged to read before delivery, it will only prepare you for what’s to come. Have you anticipated the many mentally and emotionally challenging obstacles ahead? Are you equipped with the proper guidelines to take?
Risks of Not Being Mentally Prepared
Women who are to be new mothers have been commonly known to be hospitalised for Postpartum Depression (PPD), whereby her estrogen and progesterone levels drop dramatically after giving birth. Not only will PPD affect new mothers, but their newborns as well, so recognising signs is of utter importance to protect both parties.
Those with a history of depression and anxiety are likely to have PPD, as well as those without a solid support system during the pregnancy and post-pregnancy, among others. According to research, some of the most effective ways of dealing with PPD are by going to therapy sessions, home visitations by medical nurses, midwife care, and even attending early cognitive behaviour interventions.
Failure to address and treat PPD has led many women to some pretty severe cases, including suicidal tendencies, losing interest in the child, loss of concentration, anxiety attacks, violent behaviours, and even sudden urges to cry. Consulting your doctor is strongly encouraged should you have, or know someone who has, PPD as it may be life-threatening.
What to Expect while Expecting
It is very normal for pregnant women to naturally gain weight over her prenatal period, and this also includes uncontrollable urges to binge-eat weird food combinations and the ever-fearful body aches. What many do not naturally expect would be the likes of severe nausea and vomiting, being told you stay off their feet and be confined to just being on the bed all day, and even pica – cravings for things that are not meant to be consumed, like hair, metal, soil, glass, and paint among other things.
Every woman experiences pregnancy differently, so it is important to educate yourself by checking out parenting magazines, websites, blogs. It also helps if you would journal your pregnancy and consult your doctor when things get rough. Who knows, other women may experience what you are currently going through, and you may be one of the few people who can be of help.
Be ready for the long recovery period
After giving birth, it will take you anywhere between six months to a year for your body to heal itself. According to research done by a nursing school in Michigan, your pelvic floor recovery would take an estimated eight months to recover – so it is nothing like in the movies where female actresses give birth and are ready for work within a few days. Women working in Malaysia are generally granted 60 consecutive days of maternity leave. This is the time when she must rest up and nurture her child.
New mothers are also encouraged to seek help from the husband or family members with errands and tasks, especially those requiring lifting and a lot of moving around. Instead, relax and get your rest while you can because your baby will demand a lot from you very soon.
“Empower your parenting journey with Mama Net! Whether you’re just starting your journey into parenthood or are a seasoned pro, Download our app for free on the App Store and Google Playstore for access to certified content, interactive tools, and a community of supportive parents and mothers.”
“Empower your parenting journey with Mama Net! Whether you’re just starting your journey into parenthood or are a seasoned pro, Download our app for free on the App Store and Google Playstore for access to certified content, interactive tools, and a community of supportive parents and mothers.”
