What They Forgot To Tell You About Becoming a First-time Mum
- Natarsha March APP
- May 15
- 5 min read
Becoming a first-time mum is an experience like no other.
It’s a whirlwind of emotions, exhaustion, and joy wrapped up in a bundle of nappies and sleepless nights.
Looking back, there are so many things I wish I had known before bringing my newborn home.
If you’re expecting or in the thick of those early newborn days, here are some insights I wish someone had shared with me.
1. You Will Doubt Yourself (And That’s Normal)
No matter how many books you read or how much advice you gather, you’ll have moments of complete self-doubt.
Is the baby eating enough?
Sleeping enough?
Why are they crying?
The truth is, no one has all the answers, and every baby is different. Trust your instincts. You were made for this.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of conflicting information out there. One person will tell you to hold your baby all the time, while another insists on independent sleep habits from day one.
The reality? You’ll find your own way through trial and error, and that’s perfectly okay. The most important thing is that your baby feels safe, loved, and nurtured. With time, your confidence will grow, and those moments of doubt will become less frequent.
2. Sleep is a Luxury, Not a Given
Everyone tells you to “sleep when the baby sleeps,” but let’s be real—when your baby finally dozes off, you’ll either be staring at them in awe, trying to do laundry, or Googling “is my baby’s hiccuping normal?” Instead of stressing about how much sleep you’re missing, focus on resting when you can and accepting help when it’s offered.
Your sleep schedule will never look the same again—at least for a while.
Babies have unpredictable sleep patterns, and it’s normal for them to wake frequently, especially in the early weeks. Rather than fighting it, try to adjust your expectations.
Sleep deprivation is tough, but leaning on a support system, creating a relaxing nighttime routine, and taking short naps whenever possible can make a difference. Eventually, things will improve, and you will sleep again.
3. Feeding is a Learning Curve for Both of You
Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or a mix of both, it’s not always as straightforward as you’d expect.
Babies take time to learn how to latch, and mums take time to adjust. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or paediatrician if things aren’t going smoothly—it’s completely normal to need support.
There’s a lot of pressure surrounding how you feed your baby, but the most important thing is that they are fed, growing, and happy.
Breastfeeding can be challenging, and not every mum finds it easy or even possible.
If it’s painful or stressful, there’s no shame in exploring alternative options.
Fed is best, and as long as your baby is getting the nourishment they need, you are doing a fantastic job.
Be patient with yourself—it’s a learning journey for both of you.
4. Newborns Make Weird Noises (And That’s Okay!)
As a newborn photographer in Brisbane, I’ve seen plenty of new parents panic over the little grunts, squeaks, and snorts their baby makes.
But rest assured, newborns are noisy little creatures! They’re still figuring out how to breathe properly, so unless there’s real distress, those odd sounds are completely normal.
Newborns have tiny nasal passages, which means they can sound congested even when they’re not sick.
Some babies even snore! If your baby is breathing normally when awake, there’s usually no reason to worry.
Of course, if you ever notice persistent wheezing, pauses in breathing, or excessive discomfort, don’t hesitate to check in with your doctor.
But for the most part, those quirky sounds are just part of the newborn charm.
5. The Fourth Trimester is Real
No one really prepares you for the postpartum period, also known as the fourth trimester.
Your body is recovering, your hormones are all over the place, and you’re adjusting to a whole new life. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, to cry for no reason, and to need time to find your new rhythm.
Be kind to yourself.
The first few months after birth are an extension of pregnancy in many ways. Your baby still needs the same warmth, closeness, and comfort they had in the womb.
At the same time, you’re dealing with physical recovery, sleep deprivation, and emotional ups and downs.
Surround yourself with a strong support system, be patient with your body, and remind yourself that this phase is temporary. You are doing better than you think.
6. Accept That Every Baby is Different
It’s easy to compare your baby to others, but try to resist.
Some babies sleep through the night early, while others take months (or longer). Some love being swaddled, others hate it.
Just because something works for one baby doesn’t mean it will for yours, and that’s okay.
It’s natural to want reassurance that your baby is developing on track, but milestones vary widely.
Instead of worrying about what your friend’s baby is doing, focus on your own little one’s progress.
If they’re happy, healthy, and meeting basic milestones, you’re on the right path. Trust the journey, and remember that no two babies are exactly alike.
7. Capture the Moments (Even When You Feel Like a Mess)
You might feel too exhausted to take photos, but you’ll regret not having those early memories captured.
Whether it’s quick snaps on your phone or a professional newborn photography session in Brisbane, those first weeks fly by.
You’ll cherish every sleepy yawn and tiny stretch later on.
Newborns change so quickly in those early weeks—what feels like a blur now will soon be a distant memory.
Even if you’re running on fumes, take the time to document their little details.
If you don’t feel up to it, ask a loved one or book a professional photographer to capture those special moments.
You’ll never regret having those keepsakes.
8. You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a family member, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
No one expects you to do it all. Having someone hold the baby while you shower or take a nap can make a world of difference.
New mums often feel pressure to be superhuman, but parenthood isn’t meant to be a solo journey.
Accepting help doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re prioritising both yourself and your baby. Lean on your support network, and don’t be afraid to delegate.
A well-rested and supported mum is better for everyone.
9. You Will Be Okay
In the midst of sleep deprivation and nappy blowouts, it might not feel like it, but you will find your groove.
Your baby doesn’t need a perfect mum—just a loving one. Take it one day at a time, and remember, you’re doing an amazing job.
It’s easy to feel like you’re constantly falling short, but the truth is, your baby thinks you’re the most wonderful person in the world.
There will be hard days, but there will also be magical moments that make it all worthwhile. Give yourself grace, trust the process, and remember that you’re not alone.
Becoming a mum is a beautiful, messy, overwhelming, and magical journey.
If you're in Brisbane and want to document those precious early days with a newborn photography session, I'd love to help you create memories you’ll cherish forever.
Just remember, its all a journey, and it's all a season.
This time will pass, so enjoy this moment with all of your heart.
NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER BRISBANE | FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER BRISBANE
About the Author
Natarsha March is an award-winning Brisbane newborn, baby, and family photographer who specialises in creating timeless, heartfelt images that capture the love and connection between families. With years of experience and a passion for working with little ones, she’s known for her relaxed, stress-free sessions that result in beautifully natural photographs. Based in Bunya, Brisbane, Natarsha has helped countless families preserve their most precious moments, from the tiny details of a newborn to the joyful chaos of a growing family. If you're looking for a trusted photographer in Brisbane who values quality, safety, and genuine connection, Family Photography by Natarsha March is the perfect choice.
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