First night home with newborn and we're a complete disaster

5d ago·1 min read

We left the hospital yesterday and I don't think either of us has slept more than 20 minutes. Baby is crying, we don't know what's wrong, and my wife is crying too. I feel completely helpless. I tried changing a diaper and managed to get poop on myself and the carpet. Is this normal? Does it get better? Everyone says sleep when the baby sleeps but the baby never actually sleeps and I'm too anxious anyway.

6 comments166 views

Comments(6)

JJosh M.Regular3d ago

Dude, 20 minutes of sleep per person sounds about right for night one. Don't stress too much yet. Give it a week and you'll figure out your baby's rhythm. Every kid is different so trust your gut when something feels off.

RRaj P.Regular5d ago

First night home is brutal, man. You're not a disaster, you're just exhausted. That feeling passes quick though - by week two you'll have some rhythm. Hang in there.

PPhil C.Regular5d ago

Man, those first few nights are rough but you'll get through it. With three kids I can tell you this is temporary and you're doing better than you think. Try to tag team with your wife so at least one of you can catch some sleep.

JJustinRegular5d ago

We're only 6 weeks in and I remember that first night feeling exactly like you're describing. The crying, the confusion, not knowing if it's hunger or gas or what. It gets so much better so fast, I promise.

JJustinRegular5d ago

Welcome to parenthood brother. That feeling of complete chaos at 3am is something else. The good news? It gets better. You're going to find a rhythm. For now just survive and don't worry about doing everything perfectly.

NNolan D.New Dad4d ago

First night is always rough. You're both running on fumes and adrenaline. Just remember you don't have to be perfect, you just have to try. You're already doing better than you think you are.