Many people try to tell themselves that when they are going to have a baby – not much, if anything, will change in their life. However, that is simply not the case. If you are going to have a baby it is important that you be prepared to face the natural challenges that come along with it. It is a tough decision, when to have a baby, and truthfully there is no perfect time frame. Financial security is important but raising a child can still be a daunting task. If you have decided that now is the right time to have a baby and become a mother, then the time is right for you.

Motherhood is a very rewarding pursuit; it may be the most rewarding thing you ever do. The emotions and feelings that come with it will fill your life. As you hold a newborn baby in your arms you will likely discover intense emotions you have never felt before, plus you now have a huge purpose in life. Parenting can be hard but you will be amazed by the rewards it brings. During pregnancy you may think that the hardest part is upon you, actually the days, months and even years after birth are much harder. The first step is adjusting to a new, totally dependent, person in your life not to mention physical exhaustion and fear of the unknown.

Even the calmest of woman may feel out of control when faced with a newborn baby. You will have to cope with the round the clock, feeds, diaper changes, burping and screaming. No one will blame you for wondering at some point why you decided to have a baby. Being very organized and asking for help is essential. It is not a sign of weakness, but a sign that you are in fact in control. Friends and family will want to help you, and spend time with the baby.

If you want to stay sane during motherhood, it is important to take some time for yourself, which is counterintuitive for most new mothers who want to spend every waking moment with their child. Even a few minutes alone each day can recharge your batteries and protect your sanity. Your body and mind are going through tremendous change right now so be prepared. Getting your nails or hair done is very therapeutic! Don’t forget about the other relationships in your life when you become a new mother, your partner, family and friends may feel the strain as well. Remember these are still important people in your life, even though you have chosen to have a baby.

Nearly everyone who wants to have a baby goes into it planning to be the best parent ever. The problem is this rarely if ever happens and failure feels devastating. There are many new skills and emotions you have to deal with and you will not always get everything perfectly right. Your life will be turned upside down by this new little person. You are caring for the baby 24 hours a day, 365 days per year and that is exhausting. Especially when the only mode of communication your child has is screaming.

Household chores, routine and errands will often have to wait as you adjust to parenthood. However, just remember every time you wonder why you chose to have a baby you will experience thousands of moments that answer the question. There is that moment when they first meet your eyes or hold out their little arms for you and express unconditional love up to and including the moment they have their own children. You are now and forever will be their mother, just take it one day at a time and you will be a wonderful parent.

Lisa Mullins is an extremely busy mother and writer committed to helping women learn about alternative ways to conceive and have happy, healthy children. For more information, please go to www.squidoo.com/iwantababy.

categories: to have a baby,i want a baby,getting pregnant,infertility,pregnancy