Week 2: Finding a Rhythm (Sort Of)

My week started with my wife having to go back to the hospital due to preeclampsia. For those that don’t know, that’s high blood pressure during pregnancy. Preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for both the mother and baby, including: Eclampsia (seizures), Stroke, Kidney failure, Placental abruption, and Premature birth. My wife had no issues with her blood pressure during her pregnancy, but was elevated during her first checkup after having the baby. She had to be admitted back to where we had the baby and she was put on medications to control her blood pressure. Week 2 is already about finding a rhythm and this was a great way to throw a bump in the road.

Sleep (or Lack Thereof): The Saga Continues

Let's be realistic, sleep is still a precious commodity. Those "sleep when the baby sleeps" tips? Easier said than done when you're also trying to shower, eat a hot meal (or at least a lukewarm one), and maybe even have a five-minute conversation with your partner. But you might start to notice slightly longer stretches of sleep from your little one. Key word: slightly. These slightly longer stretches allowed for a little more sleep during these night shifts. I learned to cherish those slightly longer stretches until the sounds of grunts and smacking lips that I’ve grown accustomed to, pulled my eyelids back open.

Decoding the Cries:

Week two is when you start to feel like you're cracking the code (or at least part of it). You're becoming a baby whisperer (sort of). That high-pitched wail? Probably hunger. The fussy, squirmy cries? Could be gas. The indignant roar? Definitely a dirty diaper. Okay, maybe not definitely, but you're getting better at guessing. In between the cries, just remember to embrace the baby coos and smiles while they’re asleep. Also remember to steal as many kisses as you can until the next round of cries makes you forget how sweet they can be.

The Feeding Frenzy: Round Two (and Three, and Four…)

The feeding marathon continues, but you're getting faster at it. You're becoming a pro at burping, a master of the bottle (or breast), and an expert at multitasking while simultaneously feeding a tiny human. You can now change a diaper one-handed while holding a baby, a bottle, and scrolling through your phone (just kidding… mostly). The continued weight checks can sometimes be debilitating because every time they tell you that your baby is underweight and you need to increase the feedings can cause you to feel like, what more can I do. Just remember to stay the course and as long as you are making sure the baby eats; everything will work out.

Diaper Duty: Advanced Level

What color poop will I see? That’s on your mind as you go into the diaper change. You've leveled up in the diaper changing game. You know that the number of times you’re emptying the diaper genie can be used doing something else. Those grocery bags you’ve been saving, now we have a use for them. You can now anticipate the… output… with impressive accuracy. Once you walk into the room and that smell hits you, you already know what time it is. I hope you have gotten used to the smell because it’s not going anywhere any time soon. You’ve mastered the art of the quick change, minimizing the risk of… collateral damage. You're basically a diaper ninja.

Diaper Rash:

What is this on my baby’s bottom? A trip to the pediatrician tells me it is a diaper rash. Diaper rash is a common skin irritation that occurs in the diaper area. It is characterized by redness, inflammation, and may develop into small blisters or open sores. It is caused by prolonged exposure to wet or soiled diapers, irritation from chemicals in detergents or soaps, yeast or bacterial infections, and friction from diapers. If it looked anything like ours, it was red, inflamed, and blistering. Having had this with our first son, we learned that changing the diapers regularly and keeping it dry is key. Also, applying Vaseline to the area will help keep the moisture out. This usually takes care of it. Unfortunately, this one was caused by a yeast infection and requires an ointment to be applied. Becoming one with your baby’s bottom is key to make sure this clears up in the 7 days that it’s prescribed for. Seeing your baby’s discomfort will take away any queasiness from having to do this task.

The Tiny Triumphs:

Amidst the exhaustion and the endless cycle of care, there are those precious moments that make it all worthwhile. A gummy smile, a coo that sounds suspiciously like "da-da," or just the peaceful sight of your little one sleeping soundly in your arms. These tiny triumphs are the fuel that keeps you going.

Week 2 Survival Tips:

• Teamwork makes the dream work: Communicate with your partner. Divide and conquer. Tag each other out when you need a break. Just remember it is okay to say that you need help, you’re only useful when you’re mentally prepared to be. Don’t try to do everything by yourself, your partner wants and needs you to communicate to continue your bond that is strengthening.

• Embrace the baby carrier: A good baby carrier can be a lifesaver, freeing up your hands for… well, everything. Just remember if you drop some jelly on the baby’s head while eating, just quickly wipe it off. What the wife doesn't know won’t hurt her.

• Find your tribe: Connect with other new parents. Sharing experiences and commiserating over the joys and challenges of newborn life can be incredibly helpful.

Week 2 is still a challenge, but you're starting to find your footing. You're learning, adapting, and growing as a parent. Hang in there, you've got this! (Even if you don't always feel like it).