| While your baby is in hospital you will probably feel that | | | | with unapologetic explanations where necessary. |
| she belongs to the doctors and nurses more than she | | | | 5) Try and get some fresh air and some exercise. If |
| does to you because they can help the little one and | | | | possible, it is recommended to take brisk walks outside |
| you cannot. However, this is a common misconception | | | | the hospital to relax you and to clear your head |
| and it is specifically at these times that baby needs | | | | 6) Try to take a short break each and every day for |
| you more than ever. In fact, the baby needs to hear | | | | something that will replenish the body and the soul, |
| your voice and feel your touch and love more than | | | | such as a relaxing bath in aromatic oils. |
| anything. | | | | 7) Do not take calls unless you feel up to it. Try and |
| Here are some handy survival tips if, for whatever | | | | delegate the communication to a relative or a friend. |
| reason, you find yourself in the situation with a baby in | | | | Group email lists can keep concerned relatives and |
| hospital. | | | | friends updated with the progress of the baby. |
| 1) Communicate clearly with the nursing staff and the | | | | 8) Spend as much time as possible with your sick |
| other medical staff. | | | | baby. This will help you feel in touch with the child and |
| 2) Accept all offers of nutritious meals or snacks and | | | | the situation, and it will give your child courage. |
| refreshments from friends or relatives. Do not try and | | | | Having your newborn require hospitalization for any |
| be a hero and do everything yourself. Try accept | | | | period after the normal birth time frame can be |
| offers of practical help by delegating things such as | | | | extremely frightening and bewildering, especially for |
| shopping and running errands for you | | | | new mothers. By following some of the tips listed |
| 3) Discuss your anxieties and concerns with someone | | | | above, you can handle the experience a lot better, and |
| who you trust to help you get perspective and to | | | | be more self assured. Always remember that the |
| make difficult decisions | | | | nursing staff and medical doctors are there to help and |
| 4) Where possible try not to accomplish anything else | | | | care for the baby, and they should be left alone to do |
| during the hospitalization. Put everything else on hold | | | | their jobs. |