When you are a mother for the first time, you go through a lot of anxiety during your first pregnancy. A thousand questions pop up in your head and everything you do seems like it's not good enough. In a nutshell a few things should be basic. Parenthood is effortless as soon as you adapt to a new life. We share some tips from first-time moms with you..

1. Your life completely changes: once you become a mom, things feel and look different to you. You simply become more responsible, more caring and more emotional. Embrace the change. It's a newer, better you.

2. It's nice to have another adult with you for the first few weeks. New mom,  it's ok to allow your mom or grandmother to help you out in the beginning of parenthood. They will come in handy when you tired and need to take a nap or run to the shop. Daddy may not know the things that your elders are familiar with.

3. No need to stress about your weight gain: You will get rid of the pregnancy fat eventually, but what’s more important is nurturing your new born. Your body will change and you may feel like a human milk machine for a while. It will get better.

4. Don’t expect too much from yourself: There is no such thing as a perfect mom. There will be times where you feel like you are doing something wrong. Just take control of the situation and be patient with yourself.
    
5. Your relationship with your partner may change: your child becomes first priority, so make time for sex. Seriously, even if it’s for five minutes, do it. It keeps you bonded with your man.
    
6. It is normal (no matter how much you love your baby) to feel overwhelmed, freaked out, teary or just plain sad sometimes. Give yourself a break and accept help.
    
7. Sleep when the baby sleeps.  Don't focus on spring-clean the entire house. Leave the tidying up to your mom, helper or your man. You need some sleep.
    
8. Save early and often: Start investing in your child’s future and education as soon as you hear that you are pregnant. If you can save before that, it's even better.
    
9. The only way your baby can communicate with you is by crying. Look at your baby to identify his/her needs. Their facial expressions say alot.
    
10. Feed your baby on demand. If they seem hungry frequently, feed them. All babies' needs are different. If they don't seem seem hungry, don't force feed them. Best not to stick to a schedule.

Sowetan LIVE community, please share some of your tips with first-time moms out there

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