We just got home from the hospital 2 hours ago. Wife is sleeping and baby is actually quiet right now but I'm just staring at him waiting for something to go wrong. Is it normal to be this anxious or am I just weird? I keep checking if he's breathing.
You're going to do great. That fear means you care and you're paying attention. Let your wife sleep while you watch the baby if you can - you'll need her rested. And if something feels really wrong, don't hesitate to call the pediatrician. Better to ask a dumb question than worry all night.
The fear is totally normal. You're doing fine. Try to rest when you can tonight because once that baby realizes night time is for being awake, things get interesting. Also keep your phone nearby so you can text questions to the hospital nurse line if you need to.
That first night is absolutely terrifying and also totally normal. The fact that your wife is sleeping means at least one of you is functional. If the baby is quiet, don't wake them. Just breathe and remember you're both going to be okay. You've got this.
That quiet moment is beautiful but savor it because it won't last long. First night home I was so anxious I probably checked on my son like 20 times. Just remember you've got this. Millions of parents have been exactly where you are and it works out.
First night jitters are real my friend. I was convinced something was wrong with each of my three when we first got home. Spoiler alert - nothing was wrong, babies are just weird and unpredictable at the start.
First night home is wild. My advice: stop googling symptoms and just watch the baby sleep for a few hours. You'll realize they're tougher than you think. That terror you're feeling right now? It goes away after about week two. Hang in there.
The fact that you're terrified means you're going to be a good dad. Confident first time dads without some fear usually end up needing a lot more help. You're in the right headspace even if it doesn't feel like it.
Sign in to join the conversation.
Welcome to the club. The terror is normal and it doesn't really go away, it just becomes background noise. Right now in this moment, mom is sleeping, baby is quiet, and you have a few hours of peace. Enjoy it. Tomorrow will bring new chaos but you'll handle it.