Navigating the First Month: What Every New Mom in Singapore Should Know

The first month after your baby’s arrival is an exciting yet challenging time. As a new mom in Singapore, you’ll be adjusting to life with your newborn, experiencing sleep deprivation, and managing postpartum recovery, all while trying to bond with your baby. This guide will help you navigate these early days by covering the key areas every new mom should focus on, from newborn care to self-care.

1. Newborn Feeding: Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding Tips

   Feeding your newborn is one of the most important tasks during the first month. Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle feeding, here’s what you need to know:

   • Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and bonding for you and your baby. In Singapore, there are many resources, including lactation consultants and breastfeeding support groups, that can guide you through the process. Make sure to latch properly to avoid soreness, and nurse your baby every 2-3 hours from the moment your baby is born (the thick, whitish fluid at the beginning is called colostrum and, while very little in quantity, is very nutritious for your baby and essential to get your breastfeeding journey started on the right foot). If for some reason, you don't have access to your baby straightaway, make sure to hand-express or pump to get things going.

   • Bottle Feeding: If you’re bottle-feeding, either with formula or expressed breast milk, ensure that your baby is getting the right amount of milk. Sterilize bottles and nipples regularly to maintain hygiene, and feed your baby on demand or at regular intervals. There are different milk bottle teats for babies at every age, so make sure yours is designed for a newborn.
     

2. Newborn Sleep: Establishing a Routine

   Newborns sleep around 16-18 hours a day, but their sleep is broken into short stretches, often waking every 2-3 hours. Here are some tips to help:

   • Create a Calming Sleep Environment: Keep the room dim and quiet. Use a white noise machine or soft lullabies to create a soothing atmosphere.

   • Swaddle Your Baby: Swaddling can help your newborn feel secure, mimicking the snug environment of the womb.

   • Recognize Sleep Cues: Watch for signs of tiredness, like yawning or rubbing eyes, and put your baby down to sleep before they become overtired.

   It’s normal for sleep to be erratic in the first month, but gradually introducing a bedtime routine will help over time.
   

3. Postpartum Recovery: Caring for Yourself

   Taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for your newborn. Postpartum recovery involves physical healing, emotional adjustment, and getting used to your new role as a mom.

   • Physical Recovery: If you had a vaginal birth, you might experience soreness, bleeding, and perineal discomfort. If you've had an episiotomy, it hurts and you can probably feel the stitches. C-section moms will need to care for their incision site. Make sure to rest as much as possible and attend follow-up appointments with your doctor. Don't try to move around too quickly.

   • Postpartum Emotions: Baby blues are common in the first few weeks due to hormonal changes, lack of sleep, and the stress of new motherhood. However, if you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed for longer periods, it could be postpartum depression. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a healthcare provider or counselor in Singapore.

   • Get Help: Whether it’s hiring a confinement nanny or a domestic helper, relying on family, or asking friends for help, don’t hesitate to seek support. Singapore offers confinement nannies who specialize in helping new moms during the first month, assisting with cooking, baby care, and postpartum recovery.
     

4. Bonding with Your Baby

   The first month is all about bonding with your newborn. Skin-to-skin contact, gentle rocking, and talking to your baby are all great ways to strengthen the bond. Don’t worry if the connection doesn’t happen instantly—bonding takes time. Sometimes, it may seem like your baby hates you and cries every time you pick him/her up, but remind yourself that it's nothing personal. At this point, they can barely see up to 10 inches or 25cm.

   • Use Skin-to-Skin: Holding your baby close helps regulate their heartbeat and temperature, and promotes breastfeeding.

   • Talk and Sing to Your Baby: Newborns love hearing their parents’ voices, and this can help them recognize you and feel comforted.
     

5. Newborn Care Basics: Diapering and Bathing

   Learning the basics of newborn care is essential. Singapore’s tropical climate means you’ll need to adjust some aspects of care, such as clothing and bathing frequency.

   • Diapering: Change your baby’s diaper frequently to avoid diaper rash. Keep the area clean and dry, and use a barrier cream if needed.

   • Bathing: In the early days, give your baby sponge baths until the umbilical cord falls off. Afterward, you can bathe your baby in lukewarm water a few times a week, but remember not to over-bathe, as it can dry out their skin.
     

6. Vaccinations and Health Check-Ups

   Singapore has a well-established vaccination program for newborns. During your baby’s first month, you’ll have several doctor’s appointments to track their growth and health.

   • Vaccination Schedule: Your baby will likely receive their first dose of vaccines, such as the BCG vaccine for tuberculosis and the hepatitis B vaccine, in the hospital or shortly after.

   • Health Check-Ups: These early check-ups monitor your baby’s weight, length, and overall health. Be sure to attend all appointments to ensure your baby is developing well.

   
   

7. Time for Yourself: Managing Stress and Sleep Deprivation

   The first month is exhausting, and sleep deprivation can take a toll on your mental and physical health. It’s important to carve out moments of rest and relaxation.

   • Sleep When Baby Sleeps: This age-old advice works! Take short naps when your baby is napping to recharge.

   • Ask for Help: Don’t feel like you have to do everything on your own. Whether it’s your partner, family, or a hired nanny, ask for help with baby care, housework, or errands.

   • Practice Self-Care: Even 10 minutes of self-care, like a shower, a cup of tea, or a quiet moment to read, can make a big difference in how you feel.

Conclusion

Navigating the first month as a new mom in Singapore can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, knowledge, and preparation, you can make this transition smoother. Focus on feeding, sleep, and bonding with your baby, while also taking care of yourself. Don't hesitate to seek help from family, friends, or professional resources when needed. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey—every new mom goes through this, and with time, you’ll grow more confident and connected with your baby. Parenting is a long, fulfilling journey.