THINGS I WISH I KNEW AS A FIRST TIME MOM TO A NEWBORN

Becoming a mom for the first time is one of the most beautiful, overwhelming, emotional, and life-changing experiences you’ll ever go through. While there’s no manual to prepare you for everything, I wanted to share a few things I wish someone had told me before I brought my newborn home. If you’re a new or expecting mama, this is for you.

1. They Sleep A LOT… Like, A LOT A LOT

I know everyone says newborns sleep a lot—but I didn’t really understand just how much. It’s completely normal for a newborn to sleep 16–18 hours a day (sometimes even more). It doesn’t mean something’s wrong, and no, they won’t always sleep this much. Just soak in the cuddles and know they’re doing exactly what they need to grow.

2. Unsolicited Advice is Coming… Trust Your Instincts

Get ready—everyone from your neighbor to the lady at the grocery store will have something to say about what you should or shouldn’t be doing. Some advice may be helpful, but some might just leave you confused or doubting yourself. Trust your mama instincts. Ask questions, listen to your pediatrician or lactation consultant, and give yourself permission to tune out the noise.

3. Their Tiny Tummies Are Really Tiny

Understanding your baby’s stomach size in the early days can give you so much peace of mind—especially if you’re breastfeeding and wondering if they’re getting enough.

Here’s a quick breakdown:
 • Day 1: Cherry-sized (about 5–7 mL)
 • Day 3: Walnut-sized (approx. 22–27 mL)
 • One week: Apricot-sized (about 45–60 mL)
 • One month: Large egg-sized (80–150 mL)

If your baby wants to nurse constantly in those early days, don’t panic—it doesn’t mean you’re not producing enough. Your baby is getting colostrum, the nutrient-packed, immune-boosting “liquid gold” your body produces before your milk comes in. It’s normal for it to seem like just a few drops—they are powerful drops!

The more your baby nurses, the better your milk supply will be. Breastfeeding works on a supply and demand system, so letting them nurse frequently is a good thing.

4. Bottle-Feeding & Formula Mamas—Go Slow, Too

Even if you’re bottle feeding, it’s important to remember how small their stomachs are. Avoid increasing their intake by full ounces too quickly. In the first month, most babies should only be taking about 2–4 oz per feeding. Trust their cues and don’t rush it—they’ll grow and start eating more at their own pace.

5. Gas Happens (and It Hurts Their Tiny Bodies)

Your baby will likely experience some gas discomfort, and when it hits, it’s heartbreaking to watch. My top two tips:
 1. Gas drops – always check with your pediatrician first
 2. Bicycle legs – Lay your baby on their back and gently move their legs like they’re pedaling a bicycle. This motion helps release those stubborn bubbles. Just Google “newborn bicycle exercises for gas” for a quick how-to video. You’ll thank me later.

6. Second Night Syndrome is Real (But Temporary!)

No one warned me about the second night in the hospital—and I really wish they had. It’s a real thing called Second Night Syndrome.

Here’s what happens: your baby is still adjusting to life outside the womb. That second night is often when they realize “Whoa… this is NOT the cozy womb I was in!” They become fussier, want to be held constantly, and may want to nurse or feed almost non-stop.

This doesn’t mean they’re a bad sleeper. It’s totally normal, and it will pass.

Pro tip: Try to get as much rest as possible that first night in the hospital. I know you’ll want to stare at your new baby all night, but trust me—you’ll be glad you got even a little sleep before night two rolls around.
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Final Thoughts

Mama, you are doing an amazing job—even when it feels overwhelming. There’s so much love and learning in those first few weeks. Be kind to yourself, take it one day (or hour) at a time, and know you’re not alone.

From one mama to another—you’ve got this. 💕