Bringing a newborn home… now what?

Leaving the hospital with a new baby is often as nerve-wracking as it is exciting. Away from the doctors and midwives, caring for your tiny human can suddenly feel overwhelming. How many times are they meant to breastfeed? And what if you can’t put them to sleep?
Whether it’s your first baby or your third, it’s normal to have questions — and we’ve got the expert answers right here.
According to Allison Wallbank, clinical nurse consultant at Tresillian, if your little one is sucking their fist or bobbing against your shoulder, it’s time to feed. “Read your baby, not the clock, to determine when your baby wants to breastfeed,” she explains.
If you’re not feeling confident with breastfeeding, ask a friend, nurse or lactation consultant for advice, or call Tresillian’s free Parent Help Line.
Massage your breasts before pumping and flick through some photos of bub to get those milk-making hormones flowing.
A double breast pump is more efficient than a single, though whichever you choose, Wallbank says to be conscious of the pressure setting. “Don’t have it turned up too high — it shouldn’t hurt,” she advises.
A mum’s nutrient requirements increase significantly (by up to 88 per cent) during breastfeeding and are unique to this stage. Making breastmilk uses extra fluids and calories, so you need to drink plenty of water and eat regular meals made up of protein, healthy fats and wholegrains.
It can be difficult to obtain all the nutrients from the diet alone during this busy period, so if you’re struggling to keep up, speak to your doctor about whether a breastfeeding supplement may help.
Breastfeeding is best for babies, but sometimes it just doesn’t work out. If you’re unable to breastfeed, or simply prefer to use a bottle, Wallbank says to follow the paced feeding approach.
“[This means] slowing down the feed, making sure the teat is age-appropriate and screwed tightly onto the bottle and that there are breaks during the feed,” she explains.
“Most little babies need to be held or feel like they’re being held through wrapping, as this helps prevent self-waking from the startle reflex,” Wallbank explains.
Use gentle rocking or pats to lull your baby to sleep, then place them in their cot on their back without any toys, blankets or pillows.
Once bub is asleep, try to squeeze in a quick nap to help your body rest and recover. The laundry can wait!
“Becoming a new dad is a life-changing event, but many new dads experience issues adjusting to parenthood,” says Julie Borninkhof, CEO of Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia (PANDA).
If you know a new dad who’s struggling, encourage them to speak to a friend, call the PANDA helpline or visit their GP. “Some dads might prefer self-help options like exercise, diet, social connection and self-care,” Borninkhof adds.
According to Borninkhof, babies who enjoy a lot of one-on-one time with dad are more likely to develop a strong, secure attachment to them. “If you feel like you don’t know where to start, you can try some simple things like talking to your baby, baby massage, baby wearing or bathing your baby,” she tips.

Only Elevit is Australia’s most trusted pregnancy vitamin^, supporting more than 2 million Australian mums for over 20 years from pre-conception through to breastfeeding. To find out more about how Elevit can support your breastfeeding journey, visit elevit.com.au.
^Based on Kantar Australia Brand Research, November 2023
 Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
Elevit Pre-conception & Pregnancy Multivitamin helps meet the increased nutritional needs of women who are trying to conceive or who are pregnant, as well as helping to support baby’s healthy development. Nutrional supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet.
The information in this article should not be construed as medical advice. Please always consult your doctor or other medical professional for advice specific to you.