Your baby is here. You've spent months preparing for this day, but many new parents experience some anxiety. While there isn't a manual, Texas Health Resources has the resources to help.
You have to take a test to get a drivers' license, and things as simple as toasters come with instruction manuals, but neither is required nor available to have a baby. Add in adjusting to a newborn's schedule, swirling post-partum hormones and a lack of sleep and the task ahead can seem daunting. There isn't a manual, but there definitely are resources.
Many women assume that because breastfeeding is a natural process that it flows easily and without work to adjust. For some women this is the case, but for many, assistance from professionals who specialize in lactation can be a lifesaver. Many Texas Health Hospitals have lactation consultants or breastfeeding services and information on renting or buying a breast pump.
Remember to schedule a checkup with your pediatrician within one week of delivery. Looking for a pediatrician? Our find a physician tool can be a great resource. We've all seen TV sitcoms that portray first-time parents as neurotic, calling the pediatrician at every turn. No one wants to be that person. But it's important to remember as a parent you are the one to advocate for your child. Feel free to speak up and ask questions, educate yourself and participate in decisions regarding their care.
Family and friends will be clamoring to help and to see your baby. Don't be afraid to take them up on their offers for helping with housework, cooking, laundry or other tasks. This is your time to focus on the basics: eating, sleeping, feeding your baby and enjoying time together as a family.
Texas Health Medical Minute - NICU Hypothermia
If you're curious about what each cry means or when your baby will hit certain milestones in the first year, please visit our pages on the First Six Months and First Year.
If you're feeling unsure or need help, reach out to family, friends or your physician. Bringing your baby into this world is a huge, and wonderful, life-altering transition and those around you want to help. The forums on this site and our Facebook community are great resources to get information from fellow parents.
Yes, vaccinations are the best way to protect yourself from the flu. This year, you will need to get two flu vaccinations — a seasonal flu vaccine and an H1N1 vaccine. This will protect you from the different types of the flu that are around this year.
Get your heart pumping by dancing - in the comfort of your own living room or at a dance class, but steer clear of routines that call for leaps, jumps, or twirls.
Texas Health Resources | 612 E. Lamar Blvd. | Arlington, TX 76011 | Phone Directory
