Child birth - first hours
The first hour after the birth is a time that you'll never forget.
You'll be elated, but probably exhausted, too - and it helps if you
know what to expect.
Your baby
Your baby may look a bit squashed and wrinkly, and possibly rather
blue on his hands and feet. His skin may have traces of its coating
of greasy vernix, though some of this may have been quickly wiped
off as he was given to you.
He may be quite alert, and wakeful. He may start to root around
for your nipple - that means he mouths little sucking movements
with his lips and his tongue, and moves his head as if he is
looking for the breast. After a little while, he may relax, and
even fall asleep, especially if you have fed him.
You
You will be high and exhausted at the same time! At some point, you
may have stitches put in, if you had an episiotomy or a tear.
You'll probably be offered something to drink, and your partner
will want to take some pictures! Just relax and enjoy this time
with your baby, and with your partner.
If you've had a long and tiring or difficult labour, you may not
feel up to very much at all except sleep - and the same goes for
your baby. That's OK. There'll be plenty of other chances to hold
your baby and gaze at her, and get to know her. It doesn't all have
to happen in the first few hours.
