Many expectant mothers know the importance of bonding with their baby. We are told of this wave of unconditional love that we’ll immediately feel upon meeting our new baby. If you’ve been left wondering why you’re not bonding with your new baby, you’re not alone. And it’s okay.
So many of us aren’t told that this tsunami of love doesn’t happen to everyone. Some new parents need more time to bond with their new babies. And that’s perfectly fine.
Bonding with Your New Baby Takes Time
You didn’t feel that instant connection, that instant love. That’s okay! Bonding with your new baby can happen slowly over the first few months of your baby’s life, up to his/her first year.
The good news is that bonding isn’t a “one and done” kind of thing. If you’re not bonding with your new baby right away, give it time. Time and closeness with your newborn will help.
Skin to skin contact and nursing are the first ways to encourage bonding. But as someone who personally struggled with nursing (and postpartum depression) I completely understand that this doesn’t always happen. Not to worry! You can still bond with your baby.
There are simple ways to help the bonding process along. Physical closeness and time are the best ways to bond with your baby. Hold your newborn close. Talk to him/her. Sing, rock, and soothe your new baby. Take deep, calming breaths and breath in that newborn scent. Allow for time to help you along.
Baby Blues and Not Bonding with Your New Baby
If you’ve been feeling down after having your baby, you’re not alone. Many new mothers experience ‘Baby Blues’. Anxiety, overwhelming responsibilities, and lack of sleep all play into ‘Baby Blues’. These feelings are due to the hormonal shift in your body after a delivery. They usually go away in the first 1-2 weeks postpartum, and then bonding can begin.
Postpartum depression can play a major role in hindering bonding with your baby. If your feelings of sadness last longer than 2 weeks, you may be experiencing postpartum depression. The good news is that postpartum depression is very treatable. If you think you may be experiencing postpartum depression, contact your doctor and seek counseling. Research shows that talk therapy is highly effective in treating the symptoms of postpartum depression.
Therapy for New Moms in Washington, PA
The basics of being a new mom – – lack of sleep, lack of self-care, and lack of help (real help, not cleaning out the garage help), all lend to make bonding more difficult.
Being a mom is challenging. It’s overwhelming at times and fills you with feelings of chaos that lead to tears. You don’t have to live a life full of chaos and tears. It’s okay to take some time just for you. Talk therapy is very effective, especially for new moms.
If you’re an overwhelmed, overtired, new mom and would like to get to know me a little better, please call (724) 503-6670 or email me at admin@inthenowcounseling.org.
