3 Months-Week 1
Your baby
Can you believe it has been three whole months since you brought your baby home from the hospital?
Caring for a newborn is an exhausting ("Hello! I'm awake again!") and dirty (um, was that a projectile poop?) job. But the rewards can be pretty, well, rewarding... and one of the best ones is probably showing up right about now: that spectacular toothless smile!
These days, when your 3-month-old baby sees your face or hears your voice, chances are she'll try to respond by turning toward you and flashing a great big gummy grin. She’s interested in hearing you talk and will stare intently at your mouth as you speak; start reading to her, if you haven’t started already. She’s already building a bank of vocabulary.
Your baby's body, too, is catching up to her busy brain by mastering a lot of new physical skills. She’s probably getting better at pushing herself up during tummy time, and she can begin to bear some weight on her feet. Try standing her up on your lap and feel how she pushes down. Now that's power!
Your life: What have you done for you lately?
If you haven’t already, it’s time for you to get out of the house, guilt free! Plan a special date night with your partner or a stress free night with a friend. All mothers need help, accept offers or ask for help. A relaxed mother equals a happy and healthy baby.
Loving your partner
Daddy feeling a little neglected? It is very important to let your partner in on your emotions, thoughts and fears, never assume he understands.
You both may be eagerly awaiting the opportunity to make love again, and this is an important time to approach each other with tenderness and continued communication.
Because you are probably fatigued after giving birth, you may want to experiment with making love in the morning or afternoon, rather than at the end of a day when you are already too tired. If you are breastfeeding, nurse your baby prior to your lovemaking to help extend the time you and your partner have together, if another pregnancy is not desired at this time, it would be wise to resume the use of contraceptives. Discuss your options with your care provider.
Remember that getting out and about is good for your physical and mental health, so try to take your baby out for regular walks in her pram or pushchair as soon as you feel up to it.
