What to Expect the First Seven Days Home with Your Newborn
(and Surviving the “Second Night Nightmare”)
Bringing your newborn home for the first time is a milestone filled with excitement, joy, and a touch of anxiety. The first seven days is usually a whirlwind of emotions, discoveries, and adjustments as you and your baby begin to bond and establish a routine. One common but often unexpected challenge during this time is the “second night nightmare.” Let’s explore what you can expect in those first seven days and offer tips for navigating the infamous second night.
Day 1: The Homecoming
After being discharged, you’ll arrive home with your tiny bundle of joy. The excitement of introducing your baby to their new environment may overshadow the fatigue from the hospital stay. Your baby might sleep a lot on this first day, still recovering from their birth journey. Be sure to prioritize rest for yourself, as the days ahead will require energy and patience.
What to focus on:
- Establishing a safe sleep area for your baby.
- Introducing feeding routines (breastfeeding, formula, or a combination).
- Monitoring wet and dirty diapers to ensure your baby is feeding well.
Day 2: Enter the “Second Night Nightmare”
The second night can be particularly challenging for new parents. After the relative calm of the first 24 hours, your baby might suddenly become fussy, clingy, and resistant to sleep. This behavior is perfectly normal and is often a result of your baby realizing they are no longer in the womb.
Your newborn may cry more, demand frequent feedings, and only settle when held. While this can be exhausting and overwhelming, remember that this is their way of seeking comfort and adjusting to life outside the womb.
Tips for surviving the second night:
- Respond to your baby’s cues: Hold and comfort your baby as much as possible. Skin-to-skin contact can be incredibly soothing.
- Feed on demand: Frequent feedings are normal as your baby’s stomach is still tiny and empties quickly.
- Take shifts: If possible, alternate care with a partner or family member to ensure everyone gets some rest.
- Remember, it’s temporary: This phase will pass in a day or two as your baby begins to adjust.
Days 3–5: Settling Into a Routine
As the week progresses, you’ll begin to notice patterns in your baby’s behavior. They’ll likely need to eat every 2–3 hours and sleep in short bursts throughout the day and night. Your baby might also experience their first growth spurt, increasing their need for frequent feedings.
This is also when your milk supply may come in if you’re breastfeeding. Engorgement, sore nipples, or latching difficulties might arise, so seek support from a lactation consultant if needed.
What to focus on:
- Staying hydrated and eating nutrient-dense meals to support recovery and milk production.
- Tracking your baby’s feeding, sleeping, and diapering patterns.
- Asking for help when needed—don’t hesitate to rely on friends, family, or professionals.
Days 6–7: Finding Your Rhythm
By the end of the first week, you’ll likely start feeling more confident in meeting your baby’s needs. You may still be tired and adjusting to the lack of sleep, but your baby’s cries and cues will become more familiar.
Postpartum emotions can fluctuate, so be gentle with yourself. It’s normal to feel joy, exhaustion, and everything in between. If you notice persistent sadness or feelings of overwhelm, reach out to your healthcare provider for support.
Tips for the first week:
- Prioritize self-care: A quick shower, a nutritious snack, or a nap can do wonders.
- Accept help: Let others pitch in with meals, chores, or holding the baby while you rest.
- Enjoy the moments: Take time to savor the snuggles, baby stretches, and sweet newborn smells.
Key Takeaways
The first week home with your newborn is a transformative time filled with challenges and rewards. While the “second night nightmare” can be tough, it’s a normal and temporary part of your baby’s adjustment to the world. By staying flexible, seeking support, and focusing on bonding with your baby, you’ll navigate this week with resilience and love.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. If you need guidance or support, the Birth You Desire team is here to help every step of the way.