What I have learned post-partum...

...4 months is not a long time but we have learned so much in that small period. Those first weeks were filled with trial and error, testing out tips that I read about in books and online, and general cluelessness. Some tips/methods worked for me, others did not. Every mom and baby are different I guess. Most things we figured out on our own as we got to know our baby. Here's what I wish I knew before birth:

Breastfeeding/Pumping/Bottle feeding:

• Despite what the lactation consultants suggest in the hospital, I don't need 500 pillows in order to nurse; just need my boppy, a pillow behind my back and a good foot stool/rest.
• Use the dishwasher if possible to wash bottles. Handwashing is a PAIN!
• We turned a corner once a small amount of rice cereal was added to breastmilk. But there are drawbacks - know the risks before doing it.
• Soothies gel pads are really soothing.
• Lanolin is hard to put on and encourages yeast.
• Motherlove nipple cream is great but hard to find.
• Olive oil is a good substitute when you're out of cream.
• Coconut oil on flanges feels great while pumping and reduces friction.
• Clean valves, connectors, and membranes once per day - do suggest cleaning flanges after each pump though. Put parts in ziploc bag and store in fridge until next pump session.
• Get a good app to track everything. Do not rely on your memory which is running on low power due to lack of sleep! I use The First Years to track feeding, sleeping, diapers, etc and Milk Maid to keep track of freezer stash and pumping output.
• Freezer stash takes up a lot of room. I only have 4 weeks worth and had to buy a deep freezer to store it all because it was taking over our kitchen freezer.
• If nursing doesn't work at first, be persistent and make an attempt once per day. As baby gets bigger and stronger he may catch on.
• Get a hands free pump bra!
• Pumping pals flanges are really worth it.
• Breast pads prevent leaks and make nips feel better.
• Get the lansinoh heat/cold pack for inevitable soreness and clogs.
• Do not wait to pump/breastfeed! Clogs and engorgement really sucks!

Baby care:

• When putting on a new diaper always point the willy down!
• Sensitive wipes and diapers are worth it. Our baby gets rashes when we use regular wipes and diapers.
• Babies like baths AND lotion.
• Gas drops are a life saver and can be used at every feeding.
• There is no such thing as too many burp cloths.
• Be sure to wipe UNDER balls too!
• Must have wash/burp cloth on willy during changes especially if willy looks unusually large (pee boner)!
• We have rarely used receiving blankets - in the beginning, yes for swaddling. Perhaps we will use them more in the warmer months while nursing.
• Mittens just get wet from being in baby's mouth.
• Let music play often.
• Bouncers and swings are great. Put baby in one while you shower or do misc chores.
• Mom truly knows best and don't let others tell you otherwise (unless you are asking for advice).

Sleeping:

• Move baby to his own crib only when you and baby are ready.
• Do not keep baby in the living room with you until wee hours of morning even if all you want to do is quietly gaze at him in wonder. Baby needs quiet and specific bed for sleeping at night to distinguish between night and day. It is more important for both you and baby to get good restful sleep. You have 18 years to gaze at him sleeping!
• Trust the baby monitor.
• Stick to the same wake time in the morning and same bedtime at night. Naps during the rest of the day will work themselves out.

My recovery:

• I was wearing maxi pads well in to 7w pp (mostly for cushioning - partly for pee). Just stopped wearing pantiliners at 10w pp - still dribble though:(
• Girdles and hip shrinks are not worth it. They are too uncomfortable and hurt too much in the beginning with my stitches.
• Do not have a to do list for your leave. Not worth it to feel guilty over things you didn't accomplish. More important to bond with baby, get sleep, and recover from childbirth!
• Let spouse help with baby care, feeding, even household chores.
• Expect hormones to make you crazy.
• Accept/ask for help.
• Have a freezer full of dinners.
• Take the painkillers if prescribed. Don't be a tough guy or a martyr. They really help.
• Try to get outside daily or at least sit by a window.
• Daily showers do help, but do not feel bad if you skip a day or two here and there.
• Turn off phone, computer, tv and nap when baby naps!!
• Start working out as soon as doc says it's ok but take it easy and don't put too much pressure on yourself.
• No one/thing can get close to my nipples other than Kellen's mouth and my nursing pads that doesn't make me wince in pain.
• I am no longer jealous of women with big boobs. I want my normal ones back!
• Do not get impatient for the first post partum bowel movement and take too many stool softeners!

General Observations:

• Turn down tv volume. Limit amount of time it is on and do not put baby too close - way too stimulating.
• Dog has more grey hair on her snout now:(
• Read baby-care books but keep in mind that nothing happens "by the book" in real life. Do not get upset if things are not going "by the book". If you rely on your own instincts, you and baby will be fine.
• Take forums and google with a grain of salt. Rely on opinions/advice of people you actually know.
• Take as much leave from work as possible.
• Take a lot of pictures and videos.
• Put down the iPhone/iPad and engage with your baby. From day one, he is learning new things (especially your face) and needs your undivided attention.
• Make a small investment in a warm fluffy robe and big slippers for middle of the night and early morning feedings.
• Washable slipcovers on couch are a must. Having a color that matches spitup is a plus.