Ch. 12 Adjusting to Parenthood

1. Ch. 12Adjusting to Parenthood Objectives: Explain how new mothers and fathers adjust to parenthood physically and emotionally Compare the experiences that couples, single parents, and adoptive parents have as they adjust to parenthood Suggest ways for parents to work with other family members as they adjust to the baby’s arrival Give tips for managing stress Develop a plan to help new parents cope with the responsibilities of parenting

2. Parenting Perspective • Suppose you are a new parent and your parents live close by. They frequently stop in to see the baby and usually stay for a long time. Your mother loves taking care of the baby. The visits are tiring and disrupting your time with the baby. How would you handle this situation in a way that preserves a good relationship with your parents?

3. Physical Adjustments • Recovery takes time, rest, and good care • Mother – tiredness, vaginal discharge (lochia), excess perspiring, frequent bathroom usage, discomfort from breast feeding, stretch marks, discomfort in sitting/standing due to episiotomy • Father – modification to daily routine in order to allow mother the time needed for recovery

4. Medical Checkup • 4 – 6 weeks after birth • Postnatal examination • Doctor answers questions, gives advice, checks mother’s uterus and healing progress if episiotomy or c-section was done

5. Rest and Sleep • Essential to recovery • Typical daily chores take back seat without help • Taking naps when baby is napping highly recommended • Scheduling visits is helpful • Take advantage of help from family

6. Proper Nutrition • Just as important after birth as was during pregnancy • Breast feeding mothers need extra energy and nutrition • Weight loss takes time • Eating fruits/vegetables and limiting fat intake is best way to lose the weight • Exercise is essential for helping tone muscles back up and improve emotional outlook

7. The Father’s Physical Adjustment • Lack of sleep • More household duties • Time off from work if possible

8. Emotional Adjustments • Love at first sight?? • Bond grows with time • Conflicting emotions of excitement & worry • Postpartum blues may occur (80% of women experience) • Self-esteem may drop dramatically • Father may experience doubts/concerns

9. Managing New Roles • Sharing responsibilities is a must • Managing work and child care together • Making time for each other is very important • Communication must remain focus for parents

10. Single Parenthood • Same challenges couples face x 2 • Time and energy stretched to the max • Feelings of isolation • Getting help is a must

11. Adoptive Parents • Experience different emotions than birth parents • Worry is in different concept • Time helps form bond • Treatment from other relatives/friends makes big difference

12. Sibling Relationships • Involve other children in baby care • Spend quality time alone with them to reassure them of your love for them • Remind them frequently of how much they are loved

13. Relationships with Relatives • Expect relatives to desire time with baby • Try to be sensitive to their love for the baby • Don’t be afraid to take advantage of help • Always express gratitude for help

14. Managing Stress • Eat well • Schedule time for relaxing/exercise • Plan ahead • Look on the bright side • Cry when necessary • Maintain a close relationship • Avoid comparison to others • Remember on parent is perfect

15. Depression • If ignored, can get serious • Get help if enjoyment is becoming scarce • Find support