10 Things that Surprised Me About Having a Newborn
10 Things That Surprised Me About Having a Newborn
Becoming a parent is a whirlwind of emotions, sleepless nights, and unexpected surprises. No matter how many books you read or how much advice you receive, nothing truly prepares you for those early days. Here are ten things that completely caught me off guard when I had my newborn.
1. It Might Not Be Love at First Sight
Let’s start with the big one. When my newborn daughter was placed in my arms, I didn’t immediately feel an overwhelming rush of love. I felt relief. I felt exhausted. And honestly, I felt a little bit shell-shocked. The birth didn’t go quite as planned, and in that moment, love wasn’t the first emotion I experienced. It came later, when we were finally alone, and I could take a deep breath and just hold her—without someone checking my stitches!
2. The Sleep Deprivation is Next-Level
I’d heard that life with a newborn was exhausting, but wow—I was not prepared. The level of tiredness was unlike anything I’d ever felt before. The good news? They do eventually sleep through the night, and you will feel human again… eventually.
3. Some Newborns are Surprisingly Hairy
I had no idea that some babies are born covered in fine hair (called lanugo). So, when my daughter arrived looking a bit like a tiny gorilla, I panicked! A quick Google search reassured me that it’s completely normal and that the hair falls out within a few weeks. Phew!
4. Newborns Are So Noisy
I expected crying, but what I didn’t expect were all the other sounds—squeaks, grunts, snuffles, and little whimpers. At first, it was a bit unnerving, but now I find those newborn squeaks completely adorable.
5. Your Hormones Will Go Wild
One minute I was laughing, the next I was crying because I dropped a spoon. The hormone rollercoaster is real. It usually settles down after about six weeks, but if you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to talk to your health visitor.
6. Newborns Love to Be Swaddled
I had read a little about swaddling, but I didn’t realise just how much newborns love it. It makes them feel safe and secure, just like they were in the womb. If you’re struggling to get it right, there are some great swaddle blankets designed to make it easier.
7. Breastfeeding Might Not Go to Plan
I was determined to breastfeed. I didn’t even consider bottles or formula. And then my daughter wouldn’t latch. I felt like a total failure, and it overshadowed those early days of motherhood. What I wish someone had told me is that breastfeeding can be hard, but there’s help out there. If you’re pregnant, I highly recommend booking a breastfeeding class—it can make all the difference.
8. Dummies Are a Game-Changer
Before having a baby, I was adamant I wouldn’t use a dummy. Then, at 2 a.m. on day three, my partner and I were frantically Googling ‘should we give our baby a dummy?’ Turns out, they can help reduce the risk of SIDS, which was enough to convince me. Yes, there are downsides, but sometimes you just do what you need to do to survive those early weeks!
9. Mum Guilt is Instant and Relentless
I felt guilty for everything—from not feeling love at first sight to worrying about her being hairy to struggling with breastfeeding. The mum guilt never really goes away, but I’ve learned to be kinder to myself. You’re doing your best, and that’s enough.
10. The First Six Weeks Are the Hardest
Those first weeks feel endless when you’re in the thick of it. But trust me—it gets easier. One day, you’ll look back and realise how far you’ve come.
If you’d love to capture those fleeting newborn days, I’d love to help. My newborn photoshoots take place in the comfort of my cosy studio, where you can sit back, relax, and let me work my magic. Find out more HERE.