Bringing your newborn home is one of life's most exciting and emotional experiences. After months of anticipation, your baby is finally here. While those first days are filled with precious moments, they can also bring challenges, uncertainty and plenty of questions.
Every baby is different, but understanding what to expect during the first week at home can help you feel more confident as you settle into your new routine.
Adjusting to Life with a Newborn
The first week is often a time of adjustment for the whole family. You'll be getting to know your baby's needs while recovering from birth and adapting to a new daily rhythm.
It's completely normal to feel a mixture of emotions, including:
Joy and excitement
Tiredness and overwhelm
Anxiety about doing everything "right"
Relief after the birth
Emotional ups and downs
Remember that there is no such thing as a perfect parent. The first week is about learning together.
Feeding Your Baby
Newborn babies have very small stomachs and need to feed frequently.
Breastfeeding
If you're breastfeeding, your baby may want to feed every 2–3 hours, or even more often during growth spurts. Frequent feeding helps establish your milk supply and provides comfort for your baby.
Bottle Feeding
Bottle-fed babies also feed regularly, usually every few hours. Follow your baby's hunger cues and speak to your midwife or health visitor if you have any concerns.
Hunger Cues to Look For
Your baby may be hungry if they:
Open and close their mouth
Turn their head searching for a breast or bottle
Suck on their hands
Become more alert or restless
Crying is often a late hunger cue, so responding early can make feeding easier.
Sleep Patterns in the First Week
Many new parents are surprised by how much newborns sleep.
Most babies sleep between 14 and 17 hours within a 24-hour period, but usually in short stretches rather than long blocks.
Your baby may:
Sleep for 2–4 hours at a time
Wake frequently for feeds
Have their days and nights mixed up
Want extra cuddles and contact
This is completely normal and will gradually improve over time.
Nappy Changes and Newborn Toileting
During the first week, you'll become very familiar with nappy changes.
Newborn babies typically need:
8–12 nappy changes per day
Regular checks for wet nappies
Frequent clothing changes after little accidents
The colour and consistency of your baby's poo will change during the first few days, which is perfectly normal.
Your Recovery Matters Too
While much of the focus is on your baby, it's important to look after yourself as well.
Prioritise Rest
Sleep whenever you can and accept help from family and friends.
Stay Hydrated
Keep a water bottle nearby, especially if you're breastfeeding.
Eat Nourishing Foods
Quick, healthy meals and snacks can help support your recovery and energy levels.
Take Things Slowly
Your body has been through a major physical event. Give yourself time to heal and avoid putting pressure on yourself to return to normal routines immediately.
Managing Visitors
Everyone will be excited to meet your new arrival, but it's okay to set boundaries.
Consider:
Limiting visits if you're feeling tired
Asking visitors to wash their hands
Keeping visits short
Accepting practical help such as meals or household chores
Your wellbeing and your baby's needs come first.
When to Seek Advice
Your midwife, health visitor and GP are there to support you.
Contact a healthcare professional if:
Your baby is difficult to wake for feeds
They are feeding poorly
You notice signs of illness
You have concerns about your recovery
You feel overwhelmed or emotionally distressed
Never worry about asking questions. No concern is too small when it comes to your baby's health and wellbeing.
Creating Special First Memories
The first week often passes in a blur of feeds, naps and cuddles. Take time to enjoy the little moments:
Take photographs
Record milestones
Capture tiny handprints or footprints
Enjoy skin-to-skin cuddles
Celebrate each small achievement
These early days are precious and pass more quickly than many parents expect.