This is legit the hardest thing I've ever done. We're doing like 3 hour stretches between feedings and my wife is exclusively breastfeeding so I feel kinda helpless. I try to take the night shift diaper changes but man, when he cries at 4am I just panic. Does this get easier? When did you guys finally start feeling normal again?
Days blur together at this stage. I remember standing in the kitchen at 4am not knowing if I'd already fed him or not. Write it down or use an app if you have to. Taking notes kept me sane.
Coffee is your friend right now but don't overdo it. I was drinking like six cups a day and it was making everything worse. Found out I was actually just dehydrated. Drink water with your coffee.
Two weeks is the hardest part honestly. You're in survival mode right now but it gets better fast. Keep your wife hydrated and fed, and don't beat yourself up about being tired.
Those first weeks are brutal, man. I remember just existing in a fog. You're doing great by being there for your wife even if you can't do the feeding part. The sleep deprivation does pass, I promise.
Three kids in and I still remember those early days like it was yesterday. Take shifts if you can, even just 90 minutes where one of you checks out completely. Helped us survive the newborn phase.
This part is temporary even though it doesn't feel like it. By 6-8 weeks things start getting way more predictable. You're doing better than you think you are.
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Two weeks in and running on fumes is totally normal. Your body will adjust but man those first 3-4 weeks are the hardest. Don't try to be a hero - sleep when the baby sleeps is actually solid advice even if it sounds cheesy.