Your First 24 Hours With Your Newborn — What No One Tells You

The first 24 hours with your newborn are like no other — a mix of magic, raw emotion, and complete vulnerability. Nothing really prepares you for it… and yet, somehow, your heart knows exactly what to do.

When I had my first baby, I was lucky enough to be in the comfort of my own home in Australia. No beeping monitors, no fluorescent lights — just quiet, peace, and the time to truly settle into the new rhythm of motherhood. I know not every mama gets that, especially in a hospital setting, so I want to share what those first hours can really look and feel like — beyond the picture-perfect moments we see on Instagram.

Your Baby Will Want to Be Held — Constantly

Skin-to-skin isn't just a buzzword. It's everything. Your baby has just gone from a warm, safe womb into a world of light, sound, and cold air. They’ll instinctively want to be on your chest, hearing your heartbeat and feeling your warmth. Don’t worry about routines or sleep schedules — those first hours are about bonding and being present. Let them snuggle in. That’s the magic.

Feeding Might Be Messy, Awkward… and Emotional

Whether you plan to breastfeed, bottle feed, or do a bit of both, those first feeds can be tricky. Latch issues, cluster feeding, colostrum confusion — it’s all normal. And yes, it can feel overwhelming. Ask for help. Cry if you need to. Take a deep breath. You’re both learning, together.

You Might Feel Joy, Exhaustion… or Nothing At All

You’ve just done something monumental. But emotions in the first 24 hours don’t always look the way we expect. Some mums feel a rush of love. Others feel numb. Some feel fear. None of these are wrong. You’re processing a huge transformation — physically, mentally, emotionally. Give yourself grace.

You’ll Be Watched — and That’s OK

If you’re in a hospital, expect checks on both you and your baby — temperature, heartbeat, feeding logs, bleeding, your uterus shrinking back down. It can feel invasive, but it’s part of keeping you safe. If anything doesn’t feel right, say something. You are allowed to advocate for yourself, even as you adjust to caring for your newborn.

You Deserve Care Too

This is the part we forget. The baby arrives, and suddenly all the focus shifts away from you. But you just birthed a human. You need support, softness, nourishment, and space. If you’re not getting it, reach out. If you don’t know where to turn, that’s why I created The ÔM Journey — to hold you while you hold your baby.

The Unexpected Waves — Euphoria & Pain

Those early hours can take you by surprise — not just emotionally, but physically too.

I remember thinking that once the baby was out, the hardest part was behind me. But no one warned me about the after-birth cramps — those deep, contraction-like waves that came every time I breastfed. They were more intense after my second baby, and I’ve since learned that they tend to get stronger with each birth. It’s your womb doing its job, shrinking back — but in the moment, it can catch you off guard.

And then, right alongside that, came this surge of energy I didn’t expect. I had imagined feeling shattered — and yes, my body was tired — but I also felt this incredible high. A rush of adrenaline, power, pride, love. I’d never felt so alive. It's wild how you can hold both the discomfort and the euphoria all at once.

From One Mama to Another…

Those first 24 hours aren’t about doing things “right.” They’re about finding your own rhythm. Let your body lead. Let your baby guide you. Let the tears come — and the love, too. This isn’t a race. It’s a beginning.

And if you’re already in it? I see you. You’re doing better than you think. And remember, we are here for you ! Reach out if you need help and someone to talk to.

With love, Juliane.