A Gentle Guide for New Mothers: What to Expect After Giving Birth and How to Adjust to Life with Your Newborn

Irinel Livita
7 days ago
2 min read

A peaceful newborn sleeps cocooned in a cozy white knit, nestled inside a heart-shaped wooden frame adorned with delicate pink and white blossoms.

Bringing your baby home is one of the most emotional and life-changing experiences you will ever have. The joy is overwhelming, but so can be the tiredness, the questions, and the adjustment to this new chapter.

If you’ve just given birth, this guide is here to gently reassure you: everything you’re feeling is normal.

1. The First Days at Home with Your Newborn

The first few days after birth are not about perfection. They are about survival, bonding, and healing.

Your baby doesn’t need a perfect routine. Your home doesn’t need to be spotless. You don’t need to have everything figured out.

Your newborn mainly needs:

Feeding (breast or bottle, on demand)
Warmth and comfort
Nappies changed regularly
Skin-to-skin contact
Your voice and your presence

Newborns sleep a lot, but not necessarily when you expect them to. It’s completely normal for them to wake frequently for feeds and comfort.

2. How to Rest as a New Mum

One of the most important things you can do is rest whenever possible.

✔ Sleep when your baby sleeps ✔ Accept help from family or friends ✔ Let go of non-essential tasks

✔ Stay hydrated and eat regularly

Your body is recovering from something incredible. Healing takes time. Be patient with yourself.

3. Understanding Your Baby’s Rhythm

Every baby is different. Some are calm and sleepy, others are more alert and need constant closeness.

In the first weeks:

Babies feed every 2–3 hours (sometimes more often)
Crying is communication, not failure
Cluster feeding is normal
Night waking is normal
Wanting to be held all the time is normal

You are not “spoiling” your baby by responding to them. You are building security.

4. Taking Care of Yourself

Postpartum emotions can fluctuate. Hormones shift dramatically, and it’s common to feel teary, overwhelmed, or extra sensitive.

Make space for:

Short showers
A quiet cup of tea
Gentle walks (when you feel ready)
Honest conversations about how you’re feeling

If you ever feel persistently low or anxious, reach out to a healthcare professional. Asking for help is strength.

5. Capturing These Precious Early Days

The newborn stage passes quickly. Those tiny fingers, sleepy stretches, and quiet moments feeding on the sofa, they change within weeks.

As a newborn photographer in West London, I offer in-home newborn photography sessions designed especially for new mums who want a calm, stress-free experience.

There’s no need to travel to a studio. I come to your home, bringing everything needed, and work gently around your baby’s rhythm. These sessions are relaxed, natural, and focused on preserving the real connection between you and your little one.

If you’re looking for newborn photography in West London or a newborn photo session at home, I would be honoured to document this beautiful beginning for your family.

👉 Book your session here: https://www.irinellivita.com/contact

👉 View my portfolio: https://www.irinellivita.com