What will the first hours with your newborn be like?

Are you currently pregnant with your first baby? It's only natural that you are a little unsure of what to expect when you spend that first day with your baby. So, what will happen with your newborn during the first few hours, and how will you feel?

What you can expect from the first few hours after your baby's birth depends on where you delivered, and how your birth went. In general, your baby will be handed to you immediately after birth. Those moms who gave birth at home will generally have a very peaceful first ten minutes or so, with no interference. A midwife may carry out APGAR scores, but those can (and often are) done with baby on mom's abdomen.

Moms who gave birth at home or a birth center may have some procedures done, including the PKU test, other blood tests, and measuring and weighing, as well as the APGAR scores. The umbilical cord is generally cut immediately after the birth in hospitals, and the same may happen at birth centers or at home. Delayed cord clamping has become more popular, especially among naturally-minded care providers.

In any birth setting, it's typical for mom and baby to simply spend time together, and for the baby to attempt to nurse for the first time... within the first half an hour after birth. This is also the time friends and relatives may want to meet your baby for the first time, but only if you want that :). Many new parents see this special time as private and very intimate.

The birth of the placenta typically follows within the first 30 minutes after the baby was born, and can be completely natural or actively managed depending on your healthcare providers, and your own preferences. Moms who tore during the birth, or those who received an episiotomy, will receive stitches shortly after the placenta is delivered.You may want to have a wash or a shower after a few hours, or even before. The baby will probably go to sleep at some point during his or her first hours birth is tiring for babies, too!

And you? You'll be exhausted too, but may well be too excited to fall asleep. And of course, baby will wake up every few hours. She could surprise you with meconium, the first poo, but it's also fine if that happens a little later. Some babies are also bathed within the first few hours or so, but not always, depending on your preferences.