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.
