First Week Essentials

I emailed a newly pregnant friend some unsolicited advice for everything that's helped me survive the first week and I thought I'd also share it here. Every baby and family is different of course but these are just some basics for new Mama's, and also maybe something to reference in the future when we're facing a whole new set of challenges with Moira (a look back on the good ol' days, haha).

First Week Essentials

Parents- if you can, have them come stay to help right after. someone to hold baby while you nap, eat, shower, etc. basically someone to parent you to make sure you're taking care of yourself. also its so nice to have someone to offer support/cheerleading and to talk to.

Nipple shield- this has saved my life! i just have the medela one- super cheap. so happy i already had this on hand because breastfeeding is a bitch!

A baby carrier- i got a sakura bloom ring sling and worried i was jumping the gun on something expensive (it's about $90) not knowing if baby would even like it. but it's the only way she'll sleep and i can get things done too! with 2 hands!!! i also love that it's linen and super light- we also have a beco gemini and boba air but they're either too bulky/hot right now or too big for her. what i regret right now is our $300 stroller- where the most use i've gotten from it is carrying the laundry down while i babywear moira ;) though i'm sure it'll be useful later.

Some of our recent babywearing adventures!

Manual pump- cost about $30 and totally worth it to help with engorgement/pump bottles so Daddy can feed too.

A waterproof changer- i have 2, a waterproof one and one that's not. the one that's not has become the kitty bed- we never use it because she loves to pee on the changer after we take the diaper off. ours is part of our pack n play, so if you plan to use one of those i'd def recommend looking into one with a changing table.

Stock up on nursing tanks, nursing pads, muslin blankets (while aden + anais are great you can get some cloth diapers that are just as good and super cheap) mainly for leakage.

A small bouncer/swing that fits in your bathroom- only way i can shower. nothing fancy.