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For nine months, your body has been changing to accommodate the baby inside you. You have watched your tummy stretch and grow to an unbelievable extent, plus had your internal organs squeezed and displaced to make space for the VIP within. Then, there was a flurry of excitement as your contractions began and your water bag burst; you endured the pain, exertion and effort of delivery, you may hear your newborn's first cry as she* gulps air into her little lungs, and, finally, your doctor brings your baby close and you're face- to-face with her for the very first time.

At First Sight
Baby may not be particularly appealing the very first time you lay eyes on her – her head may seem too large and even out of shape (especially if delivery has been long and difficult, or forceps were used). She may be pink, or she may seem very dark, or perhaps, blotchy. Her hands and feet might appear blue, and you may worry that something is wrong with your child. These are normal, and the discolourations should disappear within a day or two. Your doctor will perform a series of tests to ensure that your baby is well.

The First Touch
If there has been no complication, the midwife will place Baby in your arms a few minutes after birth for that important first skin-to-skin contact. Researchers have found that newborn babies do recognise familiar voices and will turn instinctively towards a known voice. Hold your baby at her focusing distance (between 20 and 30 cm/about 10 inches from your face), look into her eyes and speak to her in a soft, higher-pitched voice. She already knows your voice, and now, she'll spend many minutes staring at you, as she learns to associate your beloved voice with your face.

If you intend to breastfeed, this is the perfect time to begin. Most babies instinctively turn towards their mothers' nipples, and begin to suckle. If not, ask your lactation nurse for help.

Both of you will be quite exhausted by now, and you should try to get as much rest as possible. Newborns ideally sleep 16 to 18 hours a day, so take full advantage of that.

What Next?
It's good to be prepared for some of the emotions you may feel after birth. Many women experience a confusing rush of emotions – exhaustion, relief, joy, thankfulness, even anxiety (Why is she so scrawny?) or disappointment (She's not pretty!). Some mothers fall head over heels in love with their babies at first sight, but a lot of other moms don't. So, don't feel guilty if your first emotions aren't ecstatic. Allow yourself to get to know your baby gradually. If, however, you still don't seem attached to your baby after a few weeks or have persistent negative emotions, do consult your doctor. You may be experiencing 'postnatal blues', which is a common and treatable condition. With proper help and support, you will soon begin to bond with your baby. Eventually, you'll be as proudly maternal as the 'love-at-first-sight' mothers!

*For sake of convenience, easy reference and clarity, child is referred to as 'she' throughout the article. All ideas in the article applies equally to boys as to girls.

References: http://www.maternityclothestoday.com/babys-first-moments
http://just4families.com/The-First-Moments-Of-Your-Babys-Life 'The First Few Hours' in Pregnancy, Baby & You, July 2005.

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