First Week Motherhood Survival: How I Survived the Chaos

Did you know that 80% of new moms experience the “baby blues” during their first week postpartum? I definitely was part of that statistic! When I first held my little one, I thought I’d figured it all out during those nine months of preparation. Boy, was I wrong.

The first week of motherhood is like being thrown into the deep end of a pool you didn’t know existed. Everything feels overwhelming, nothing goes according to plan, and you’re running on about two hours of sleep. But here’s the thing – you’re not alone in this crazy journey, and with the right survival strategies, you’ll make it through stronger than you ever imagined!

Sleep When the Baby Sleeps (Even Though Everyone Says It)

I used to roll my eyes when people told me to “sleep when the baby sleeps.” Like, seriously? But after day three of feeling like a zombie, I finally listened. The laundry can wait, the dishes can pile up, and that thank-you note to Aunt Martha isn’t going anywhere.

Here’s what actually worked for me: I set a timer for 20-30 minutes during baby’s nap time. Even if I couldn’t fall asleep, just lying down with my eyes closed helped reset my brain. Sometimes I’d doze off, and those power naps were lifesavers. Trust me on this one – your body needs rest more than your house needs to be perfect.

The Sleep Foundation backs this up, explaining how crucial rest is for new mothers’ physical and mental recovery.

Accept Help (And Ask for It When You Need It)

I’m the type who usually wants to do everything myself. Independence was my thing, you know? But during that first week, my mom showed up with groceries and started folding laundry without even asking. I almost cried with relief.

Don’t be proud like I was initially. When someone offers to bring dinner, say yes! When your partner offers to take the night shift, let them. I learned that accepting help doesn’t make you weak – it makes you smart. Create a simple list of things people can do: grocery shopping, meal prep, dog walking, or even just holding the baby while you shower.

That ten-minute shower became my daily sanctuary, by the way. Sometimes it was the only time I felt human again.

Feed Yourself (Not Just the Baby)

I was so focused on breastfeeding schedules and bottle prep that I forgot to eat real food. On day four, I realized I’d survived on crackers and whatever my husband could grab from the pantry. Not smart, Valery!

Meal prepping before baby arrives is great, but if you didn’t get to that (like me), don’t stress. Stock up on easy, nutritious snacks that you can eat one-handed. Think protein bars, trail mix, bananas, and those pre-made sandwiches from the grocery store. Your body needs fuel to recover, especially if you’re breastfeeding.

I started keeping a water bottle and snacks by my nursing chair. Game changer! The CDC recommends that breastfeeding mothers consume an extra 330-400 calories per day, so don’t skip meals.

Trust Your Instincts (But Don’t Google Everything)

Around day five, I became a Google search machine. “Why is my baby crying?” “Is this normal?” “Should I be worried about…” You get the picture. While Dr. Google can be helpful, it also sent me down some pretty scary rabbit holes at 3 AM.

Here’s what I wish someone had told me: babies cry, and sometimes there’s no specific reason. They’re adjusting to life outside the womb just like you’re adjusting to being their mom. Trust those maternal instincts – they’re stronger than you think!

Of course, always call your pediatrician if something feels genuinely wrong. But for general fussiness, gas, or those random crying spells? You’re probably doing just fine. The American Academy of Pediatrics has great resources about normal newborn behavior that helped calm my nerves.

Your Body Did Something Amazing (Give It Time)

Nobody warned me about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with postpartum recovery. One minute I was crying because the baby was perfect, the next I was crying because I couldn’t figure out how to work the new car seat. Hormones are wild, y’all.

Be patient with yourself. Your body just did something incredible, and it needs time to heal. Those first-week emotions are completely normal – you’re not broken, you’re not a bad mom, you’re just human. I kept reminding myself that this intense phase wouldn’t last forever.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to your healthcare provider. There’s no shame in asking for support during this transition.

You’ve Got This, Mama

Looking back, that first week feels like a blur of diaper changes, feeding sessions, and wondering if I’d ever feel like myself again. But here’s the beautiful truth – you will not only survive, you’ll discover a strength you never knew you had.

Remember that every mom’s experience is different, so customize these tips to work for your situation. Most importantly, be kind to yourself during this incredible transition. You’re learning one of the hardest jobs in the world, and you’re doing better than you think.

Want more real talk about motherhood and parenting? Check out our other posts here at Valery Teddybear – we’re all about keeping it real and supporting each other through this wild journey!