Bonding with your Newborn Baby begins in the Womb

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Bonding with your Newborn Baby begins in the Womb

Bonding With Your Newborn Baby

Did you know that you start bonding with your newborn while they are still in the womb? In fact, most newborns will recognize their mother's scent the moment they are born, and feel more comfortable in your arms than any other place.

Many parents will start feeling bonded to their newborn in the first few days or even hours after birth; however this isn't always the case. For some parents who are separated from their baby for the first few days or weeks of life, bonding may seem like a much more formidable task, though it doesn't need to be.

Bonding with Baby:
Basics for Mom and Dad
Don't worry if you feel more fear and trepidation than awe and excitement in the first few days after your newborn's birth. For many parents bonding takes time to develop. Rest assured however, as long as you are feeding and caring for your newborns basic needs, you are forming a bond with them.

It isn't uncommon for parents to feel guilty if they don't bond with their newborn immediately, but remember that boding takes time and is an individual experience. You will form a bond with your baby as you get to know them and care for them, and as you understand what exactly your baby needs from you over time.

Father Bonding
Most new dads worry more than moms about bonding. It's often hard to see their wives or partners time so consumed with the newborn, and it isn't uncommon for dads to feel a little jealous of the time that mom and newborn are sharing together

Many dads start feeling more bonded to their newborn when they are given the opportunity to share in newborn feedings. If you are able to introduce a bottle to your newborn, consider letting dad share in one or two of the daily feedings

Fortunately if this is not possible there are a number of other ways that a dad can create a bond, including by changing the baby, rocking the baby to sleep and even burping the baby. Remember that it is important for a dad to find time to enjoy your baby at times other than when he/she is simply crying.

Bonding:
Is A Lack of Bonding A Cause For Concern?
If after several weeks you still don't feel attached to your newborn, or you feel resentful or angry toward your newborn, be sure to contact your healthcare provider. It is possible that you are suffering from post partum depression that may need treatment.

The same goes for dad, who might be suffering from a little depression himself. The good news is with proper support and medical care depression following the birth of a baby can typically be easily treated, allowing you to form the all important loving bond you cherish with your child.