1. You will feel an overwhelming love for your baby

And this will escalate over time.

2. You won't feel the episiotomy cut

They inject you even if you have an epidural (just to be safe). If you see the scissors like I did, close your eyes and just push.

3. You will forget the pain of childbirth and labour

The sleepless nights that follow are responsible for that, and also the joy of nurturing your child.

4. Your body needs to heal

Get help during your first month, preferably Mom or a confinement lady (so you won't feel guilt about Mom taking the night shift all the time).

5. You will feel some pain below

Take them painkillers and sit on a doughnut cushion.

6. Breastfeeding will be a tough nut to crack

But persevere. I dreamt each day of weaning but told myself one day at a time. Now, it's cakewalk.

7. You will get used to the night feeds

Good grief. I used to love sleeping in, sleeping 8-10 hours everyday especially on weekends. How I have thrived on broken sleep of 1-3 hours each time is beyond me. But I coped within the first week of trying, which is this week.

8. Throw out the superstitions

I ate soya sauce with relish, watched horror movies and Animal Planet, bathed daily, washed my hair, and we're all fine. Do check which things you are supposed to avoid from your doctor.

9. Take pain relief when you need it

Whether it is in the labour ward or post-delivery, take the pain relief that is offered you. Technology is there for a reason. Keep your options open. Plus, for me it was easier to concentrate on pushing with an epidural while watching the chart, rather than racked with agonising pain.

10. Breastfeeding does help you lose weight

I gained 20kg during my pregnancy. Lost 6 kg post-delivery. Looked 5 months pregnant when I left the hospital. Pumped milk every three hours for my jaundiced baby from the get-go. Breastfed as much as I could while supplementing with formula. After 5 weeks I have lost 13kg and breastfeeding exclusively. I look like my old self, more or less. Tummy isn't quite flat but getting there. 7 more kg to go.

11. Your back will hurt like hell

From breastfeeding, carrying baby, and just being plain old tired. Buy the MyBrestFriend back support cushion (for when your tum is gone), stock up on koyok, book your massage lady, take pilates, get a Baby Bjorn baby carrier.

12. You will never be the same again

It's like Jean Grey rising from the lake. Dumbledore's phoenix rising from the ashes. Neo taking the blue pill (or was it red?). There's no turning back. Your life has irrevocably changed. You're now a mom and are responsible for that little one in your arms. Welcome to parenthood!

Technorati: birth, pregnancy, motherhood, parenting