Becoming a parent is a beautiful journey filled with precious moments, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges, especially during those early days with a newborn. If you’re a new parent feeling overwhelmed by the demands of caring for your little one, rest assured that many of these tough moments are just temporary. Here are five really hard newborn things that won’t last forever.

1. Sleep Deprivation

One of the most common struggles for new parents is the relentless cycle of sleep deprivation. With newborns waking every few hours for feedings, it’s easy to feel like you’ll never get a full night’s sleep again. However, remember that newborn sleep patterns evolve rapidly. As your baby grows, they’ll begin to sleep for longer stretches, and you’ll eventually find yourself getting more rest. If you need some extra support for baby sleep, I highly recommend checking out The Sleep Lady.

2. Endless Feedings

Newborns have tiny tummies and need to eat frequently, sometimes every hour. This can be exhausting and time-consuming, especially during those late-night feedings. However, rest assured that as your baby’s stomach grows and their feeding efficiency improves, the frequency of feedings will decrease. Soon enough, you’ll find yourself enjoying longer breaks between feedings.

3. Constant Crying

It’s tough to listen to your baby cry, especially when you’re not sure what they need. Babies cry as a way to communicate hunger, discomfort, fatigue, or simply a need for comfort. While it can be challenging to decipher their cries at first, you’ll gradually learn your baby’s cues and be better equipped to soothe them. As your baby grows, they’ll also develop more ways to express themselves beyond crying.

4. Colic and Gas Pains

Colic and gas pains are common in newborns and can lead to hours of inconsolable crying. It can be heartbreaking for parents to see their baby in discomfort without being able to provide immediate relief. The good news is that colic usually peaks around 6 weeks and typically improves by 3 to 4 months of age. Gas pains also tend to decrease as your baby’s digestive system matures. I found gripe water to be a lifesaver for my little ones.

5. Constant Need for Attention

Newborns require constant attention and care, leaving parents feeling like they can never catch a break. It can be challenging to find time for yourself or to complete simple tasks with a clingy baby in tow. However, as your baby grows and becomes more independent, they’ll start to entertain themselves for short periods and become more predictable in their needs.

The early days with a newborn can be incredibly challenging, but it’s important to remember that many of these difficult moments are temporary. As your baby grows and develops, you’ll find yourself adapting to their needs and feeling more confident in your parenting skills. Cherish the small victories, seek support when you need it, and remember that this phase won’t last forever. Before you know it, you’ll be looking back on these tough times with a sense of accomplishment and nostalgia.

So hang in there, new parents! You’re doing an amazing job, and these really hard newborn things will soon become distant memories as you embark on this beautiful journey of parenthood.

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