The listing, Free Advice or Answer a Question for New or Expecting Mothers has ended.
Hello,
I have three children, two boys and a girl. I'm a researcher by nature, so I've read probably 10 baby books, and parenting magazines and website articles for about 6 years now. I won't say I'm an expert, BUT, I will say I'm more than willing to be a sounding board for new moms. I know I was an only child and didn't really have anyone to help me.
So win the auction, ask me a question. Or, win the auction, and I'll send you 5 tips, tricks, warnings, etc. I can cover breast feeding, c-sections, siblings, nipple confusion, sickness, child care, baby care, pets, formula, returning to work, etc. Just tell me your interest.
Now, two pieces of advice for super free, because they're terribly important
1. Post pardum depression is not just sadness. It's normal to grieve your change or experience general hormonal fluctuations. However, I want every woman to know that post pardum depression can take the form of extreme anxiety, caution, paranoia, fear, sadness, and suicidal thoughts. Don't think that because you're hyper vigilant about your baby, that it isn't post pardum. With my first, I figured since I wasn't sad but incredibly vigilant - I attributed it to 'new mommy syndrome', but I was wrong.
2. Babies are frustrating. If you become frustrated by your baby, seriously walk away. Put her in a crib, in a bouncy, on the floor, in a playpen, anywhere she will be safe to scream and cry, and walk away. She won't die from crying for a few minutes, even if she's hungry or has a dirty diaper. Your sanity is more important than her temporary need so you don't do something you'll regret. You might feel horrible guilt, but it's in your best interest, and hers, to just walk away. I know dads, friends, family aren't always available to help bear the load - so pace yourself. It doesn't matter what the other mothers or neighbors think. They're not the ones that have to be her mommy for the rest of her life.