There is no better feeling than coming home after giving birth. Finally, being alone with your baby, you may find yourself asking, "What just happened?" We know that these first days with your baby will be challenging and demanding , and that you may not really feel like you know what you're doing, but they will also be very special . In this article, we share the best tips for those first days at home with your baby as a new family.

Clinging and first hours

Your bebé will sleep a lot during the first 24 hours , as they will be exhausted after childbirth. You are probably just as tired : take the term postpartum literally and let your body rest too. Your baby first has to learn how to settle, so they may sleep better on top of you or your partner. If you give them plenty of physical contact and security , you will strengthen their trust in these first days.

Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding

In these first days, your baby is likely to want to suck every few hours , especially as colostrum becomes transition milk and then mature breast milk after about three days . Your newborn still does not need a fixed breastfeeding rhythm, and you don't need to worry about "spoiling" them with frequent cuddles. Although it may feel exhausting at first, breastfeed or feed your baby on demand whenever they ask for it. If you've decided to feed them with a bottle , your partner can support you and enjoy some extra bonding time with your baby.

Baby care and diaper changing

No one is born an expert in changing diapers and baby care. So don't hesitate to ask your matron to show you all the steps and share helpful tips. In our article " How to change your baby's diaper in 7 steps " you will find everything you need to consider when changing your little explorer's diaper . You'll likely find your routine after a few days. You should not bathe your newborn until their umbilical cord has fallen off, at the very earliest after five or six days . In the early days, it is enough to wash your baby with a soft T-shirt and warm water , and it is not yet necessary to apply cream.

Visits from family and friends

Of course, your loved ones will want to meet your baby as soon as possible. However, the most important thing when scheduling visits is your well-being and your little one's. Do not hesitate to communicate clearly if you prefer to postpone visits to another day or until you have had a bit more time.

External support

During the first days after childbirth, you will have several visits with the pediatrician to see how your little adventurer is doing. Feel free to ask all the questions and concerns that come up.

Support in daily life is also essential in the first days so that your body can recover from childbirth. So, for now, leave the household chores to your partner and don't be afraid to accept help from family members or friends, or to make your life easier in other ways, such as with the LILLYDOO monthly diaper box . That way, you won't have to worry about buying diapers, and you'll always be well-equipped with everything you need for your baby.

Be patient with yourself

The postpartum period can also be emotionally exhausting, especially if postpartum depression or baby blues appear after a few days. It may also feel like your baby cries often without apparent reason . After all, you are still getting to know your little adventurer, and soon you'll be able to interpret their signals . However, there isn't always an obvious reason for their discomfort. So, the best thing you can do is give them amor and stay calm . Be patient with yourself, and know that if you're not feeling well, that's okay.

Although becoming a mother or father is a completely new experience , pay attention to your instincts and enjoy those first special moments with your baby to the fullest. Relax , enjoy your newborn, and trust yourself: that is the most important thing.