It takes new mums four months and 23 days to get used to being a parent, according to new research. A study of 2,000 mums showed that the first few months is a very confusing time for mums, and it takes almost five months for mums to get into a routine, with the confidence to be able to deal with every eventuality. This research was commissioned by international baby brand, Munchkin.
 
In this time she will learn what baby’s different cries mean, how to deal with bringing a baby out and about, what items she will need to be armed with at all times, and no longer break down in tears with exhaustion.
 
During pregnancy, only half of those studies felt nervous at becoming a mum. One in four felt overwhelmed at the thought. This increased after giving birth, when over half of those studies admitted to being overwhelmed. A frazzled 57% said those first few months were a bit of blur because they were constantly worried about doing everything right. Unsurprisingly two thirds of mums admitted that worry and tiredness had led them to crying.
 
One in five new mums thought their partner settled into the role of being a parent quicker that they did, which in turn led to envy in the relationship.
 
Claire Rayner of Munchkin said: “It’s perhaps reassuring that so many mums went through the same period of worry as it shows just how common a reaction it is to feel that you might not cope.
 
“What is important is not being afraid to voice those worries and let your friends, family and support network help you as much as they can.”
 
Here are the top 10 things that lead to feeling like a ‘proper mum’
1.    Getting a good routine sorted
2.    Knowing what to do when her baby cried
3.    Not being worried about dealing with her baby in public
4.    Trying not to panic when her baby was under the weather or had a temperature
5.    Always leaving the house with a spare change of clothes for the baby
6.    Always leaving the house with milk/food/snacks for the baby
7.    Being able to change a nappy quickly
8.    Having the baby sleep through the night
9.    Feeling able to keep on top of the housework
10.  Always having a toy or something to entertain the baby in their handbag

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