LIfe with a baby can often feel like life ... consumed by a baby! You spend your days (and a good part of your nights early on) feeding, changing, bathing, dressing, comforting and entertaining your little one. How are you supposed to take care of your own needs?

Showering, eating healthily, exercising, getting some 'you' time, going out with friends once in awhile—all of these things are important to your overall wellbeing. And research has found that when parents are happy, their babies benefit.

Don’t be shy about asking your partner, family or close friends for support if and when you need it. Ask one of them to be there to care for your baby while you shower, run some errands, take a walk or meet up with friends for coffee or even a movie. 

Whether you’re the mom or dad, if you are your baby’s primary caregiver, It’s important that you have time for yourself. You’ll come back to your infant refreshed and re-charged, and the 2 of you will probably appreciate each other even more.

This email is not intended to provide personal medical advice for your individual pregnancy or the care of your baby. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your or your baby's health or medical condition. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.