But like many of the best experiences in life,new momshave to learn as they go.
As you’ll see, that whole “hindsight is 20/20” adage definitely applies to being a parent.
Takebreastfeedingfor instance: HOLY HURDLE.
Lisa Spindler Photography Inc. / Getty Images
You automatically assume that your babe will come out and ta-da, you’re breastfeeding!
But that’s not the case for so many new moms.
He puked all over me.
My baby changed my entire life for the better, but my support system changed for the worse.
Not having that adult outlet was a huge adjustment."
Tamara S., 34
5.
She would have prepared her body as much as possible.
I had my second child 18 months after my first, and it was not pretty.
Then my body just fell apart after having my third.
I found myself with severe diastasis recti [separation of the abdominal muscles] andpelvic organ prolapse.
After that happened, I dug deep into the understanding of what actually transpires musculoskeletally during pregnancy.
If I had understood this pre-pregnancy, I would have targeted my exercise for those changes.
Pregnancy is an absolutely amazing gift, but it does take a toll on a womans body.
However, with the right information and tools, every mama can feel great after baby!"
Within a few months, things felt a lot better."
Catherine C., 34
“I focused too heavily on the milestone chart.
Roxanne L., 35
“Dont be afraid to ask for help.
My daughter was born premature, weighing a little over three pounds.
I realized there is no book that can prepare you for real life.
Google cant answer everything for you as a parent; other parents are some of your best resources.
At the same time, understand that what works for them might not work for you.”
My husband and I are not that particular with what we eat health-wise.
We eat whatever is convenient.
As my four-year-old daughter grows, it’s difficult for us to make her eat vegetables and fruits.
If I’d paid more attention to this, I would have started changing our eating habits sooner.”
Jane D., 24
“I had my children 18 months apart.
No, I didn’t plan it that waytoo much red wine on date night.
I wish I had known how hard it is to recover from giving birth.
I didn’t expect that I would be in so much pain or so physically wiped out.
Two years later, I finally feel as though Im sort of ‘normal’ again!”
Anna L., 38
Quotes have been edited and condensed for clarity.
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