Paranoid about my 4 day old newborn girl...?

Question

I don't know if it is normal, but I'm really scared something is wrong with her. She acts normal I suppose, but every little thing that seems odd I freak out. She is my first and I'm constantly paranoid she is going to die for some reason. I really don't know what to do... or think, at this point.

Answer 1

Just be calm. You'll be okay and its normal for you to be so scared since this is your first child. Just continue to check on her whenever you feel the need and if you really think something is wrong, take your baby to the doctor, even though most likely shes ok. You'll be fine, just relax, and good luck with your baby.

Answer 2

I think that most mothers go through this. At least I know that I did. To some extent this is your mothering extinct kicking in, giving you extra adrenaline to take care of your new born, and over taxing your body. Plus you have a barrage of information coming at you from, Magazines, TV, Internet; not to mention all the pamphlets the hospital sends home with you. Of course you're going to be paranoid, you just read a 300 word article on SIDS. (This was my reading of choice for the first few weeks) Which just aided my paranoia.
The best thing you can do right now is be there for your new baby. Watch her closely for signs of illness, but don't get too worked up when she does something new... like start drooling... LOL. If you EVER, EVER feel that something is really wrong, call your doctor. You have a Pediatrician for a reason, and they expect new mothers to call them! It's their job after all!
Take care... I'm sure you're gonna be a great Mom!
Best Wishes.
:o)

Answer 3

I know that it is scary to think of this little beautiful creature depending on you for everything. Just sit for a minute and take a deep breath. You will be fine. Your daughter will be fine. Remember that the two of you are getting to know each other and that as the mom you will know your girl better than anyone else in the world.

Don't forget to take care of yourself. I know it sounds silly but sleep when the baby sleeps. Don't forget to take a shower. You probably won't want her out of your sight for a little while longer. I used to put my newborn in the carrier and put the carrier on the bathroom floor while I showered. If you continue to think that your concerns are unreasonable, talk to your doctor. Post-partum depression can be more than just being sad. It can be a lot of strong and wild emotions. Your hormones are going crazy right now.

You'll be fine. You daughter will be fine. Just keep loving her.

Answer 4

I to was very freaked out with my first one. He is now 8 and I have a 2 year old and a 6 day old. Don't worry. I was freaked out because I thought he slept to much and thought that he had brain damage or something. Don't worry this will pass in time. Just do your best and don't sweat the small stuff or you may end up missing out on some of the most precious times in her life.

Answer 5

Yup...but it's normal...I brought my baby back to the birthing center the same day they sent me home 'cause I wasn't sure and I had my doctor on speed dial...however, if these feelings worsen or consume you to the point you are unable to care for her effectively you may be experiencing Post-partum depression and should see a doctor (speaking from experience) And just keep in mind your new at this...find a more experienced mom to talk to, It really does help. Also stay out of the disease and disorder sections of your books, whatever you read you'll see in your child.

Answer 6

Welcome to motherhood! It's completely normal to feel these things. I was concerned for my son when he was a newborn almost every minute of the day and even now I worry about him at times. Don't go over board with this panic. It can lead to you being on edge all the time day and night and you need to be clear minded and well rested to care for your daughter. Discuss the concerns with your husband/boyfriend and maybe even your doctor. It could be a little PostPartum depression. Just keep on caring for her and loving her. Congrats on the new baby!

Answer 7

It's allright. I went through the same thing. I would randomly put my hand on her chest while she was sleeping to see if she was still breathing. At 6 months old, I still do it. It's good that your worried about her. It means you love her and want to protect her. Just don't let it take you over. If you have concerns, write them down and ask you doctor at the next visit. See if they can recomend some books to read. I really like the "What to expect" series. They have one for the first year. You'll do fine. Good luck.

Answer 8

Every new mom is scared. But thinking she is going to die is not good. Right now, you seem to have the baby blues which is really common. When you go back for your 6 week check-up, if you are still having these feelings, you need to tell your doctor. You might need some medication. As for right now, I know it's hard but try to not worry so much, babies are surprisingly resiliant. If you need to talk, please feel free to email me. I know exactly what you're going through.

Answer 9

I don't think you're abnormal at all. I was the same way when I had my son...plus, you're hormones are crazy right now so it's hard to have constant rational thoughts.

I was always checking to make sure he was breathing....and worrying about him.....but after a few weeks, even though I was still concerned for his safety, I calmed down a ton. I think you're fine....worrying about her safety is what a good mom does!

But...if you find yourself worrying so much that it starts to make you moody or scared....it wouldn't hurt to talk to a doctor. Lots of new moms go through the same thing.

Good luck to you and congratulations on your baby girl!

Answer 10

I prayed a lot. And I'm normally not a praying type of person.

Also I was really sleep-deprived and that makes the paranoia a lot worse. Have someone come over to help so you can rest.

And talk to your doc.