Common Worries and Best Tips for First-Time Parents

Becoming a parent for the first time is both exciting and overwhelming. As a parent-to-be, it's completely normal to experience a mix of emotions—from joy and anticipation to anxiety and self-doubt. Many expectant parents worry about their baby’s health, bonding, finances, and whether they’re doing everything “right.” To help ease these concerns, here are some essential new mom-to-be tips based on expert advice and common experiences:

• Sleep safety. Always place your baby on their back in a cot in your room for the first 6 months. Do not use blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, or bumpers.

• Emotional wellbeing. Feeling disconnected or anxious is common—seek support early if needed.

• Feeding. Whether breastfeeding or formula feeding, focus on what works best for you and your baby.

• Baby’s development. Every child develops at their own pace; regular health checks can ease your mind.

• Financial prep. Explore support options like Parental Leave Pay and Family Tax Benefit.

Understanding these basics can help you feel more confident and prepared. In the sections ahead, we’ll explore each of these areas to guide you through your journey and offer you some of the best tips for first-time parents.

Common Emotions After Having a Baby

Becoming a parent is one of life’s biggest emotional shifts. It's common to feel joyful and deeply bonded one moment and overwhelmed or tearful the next—especially for a new mom-to-be or a first-time father.

Common Worries for New Parents

Becoming a parent for the first time comes with a steep learning curve, and it’s completely normal to have a lot of questions and concerns. From feeding and sleep to health and safety, many new parents wonder whether they’re doing things “right.” The good news? Most of these worries are incredibly common, and there are clear, trusted answers to help guide you through. Below, we address some of the most frequent concerns new parents face—and what you can do to feel more confident.

Feeding Your Baby

Feeding your baby—whether by breast, bottle, or a combination—can bring up a lot of questions in the early days. Babies are born with instincts that help guide the feeding process, and with time and support, you’ll learn what works best for both of you.

Here are some of the most common feeding questions and worries for new parents, with expert-backed answers:

• I’m Not Sure How to Breastfeed. Another very frequent concern is that you won’t be able to breastfeed. Luckily, nature has pretty much perfected it. While there can be a learning curve, including getting your baby to latch onto your breast, it might surprise you to learn that babies are born instinctively to know what to do, so try to relax and let nature take its course. Try not to worry if you’re having difficulties—experiment with different breastfeeding positions and don’t be afraid to ask for help early. A lactation consultant might be a helpful resource.

• Scared dad feeding? As a dad or other non-birthing parent, it’s totally normal to feel apprehensive about feeding your newborn. Bottle-feeding builds confidence and bonding for new parents. Don’t rush. Let your baby take the lead and watch for feeding cues like rooting or sucking on hands. Skin-to-skin contact during bottle feeds helps foster closeness.

• Is formula ok? Yes, infant formula is a safe and healthy choice for feeding your baby if breastfeeding isn’t possible or preferred. Choose a formula labeled “iron-fortified” and follow mixing instructions precisely. You should talk with your baby’s healthcare provider if you have questions.

• How often should my baby eat? Newborns typically eat every 2–3 hours, about 8–12 times in 24 hours. It's normal for feeding sessions to vary in length—some babies feed for 10 minutes, others for 45. Don’t watch the clock too closely. Respond to your baby’s hunger and fullness cues instead. Check out our baby feeding schedule for more insight.

• How do I know if they’re getting enough milk? Wet and dirty diapers are your best indicator. Expect at least 6 wet diapers and several stools per day after day 5. Other signs include steady weight gain and contentment after feeding.

Check out our collection of feeding articles for everything you need to know, and download our Free Breastfeeding Guide.

Your Baby’s Health & Wellbeing

In the early days, it's natural to be focused on every sound, movement, and expression your baby makes. Their health and safety become your top priority—but knowing what’s normal can help ease those first-time parent nerves.

• Why does my baby make strange noises while sleeping? Newborns often grunt, sigh, coo, and even snort while sleeping. These sounds are usually caused by digestion or normal breathing patterns, especially since their nasal passages are still very small. If your baby is otherwise comfortable and feeding well, these noises are harmless.

• What happens if you don’t support your baby’s head? In the first few months, a baby’s neck muscles are not strong enough to support their head. Always cradle the head and neck when lifting, carrying, or laying your baby down. A momentary lapse is unlikely to cause harm, but consistent head support is crucial for healthy development.

• I’m scared my baby will choke. Choking is a common fear, especially when your baby starts mouthing objects or solids. Always supervise feedings, avoid small items like buttons or coins, and cut foods such as grapes or hot dogs lengthwise into small, manageable pieces once your baby is eating solid foods. All caregivers should take an infant CPR.

• Will my baby get a flat head? Flat head syndrome (positional plagiocephaly) can happen when a baby lies in the same position too often. To help prevent this, alternate your baby’s head position each night, hold them upright during the day, and offer tummy time several times a day while they’re awake and supervised. However, also put your baby to sleep on their back. 

• Can my baby get too much sun? Babies have sensitive skin and should be kept out of direct sunlight, especially under 6 months of age. Use wide-brimmed hats, light layers, and keep them shaded. For older babies, choose a pediatrician-approved, broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply often. Keep an eye out for sweating, red cheeks, or panting—signs it’s time for your baby to chill a bit. Be sure to nurse your baby more or offer more formula when outside for longer periods of time.

• My baby sneezes a lot—are they sick? Frequent sneezing is usually normal and helps your newborn clear their tiny nasal passages. Unless it’s accompanied by other symptoms like fever, congestion, or trouble feeding, there’s typically no need for concern.

• How often should I bathe my baby? You don’t need to bathe your baby daily. Two to three times per week is sufficient, as long as you’re cleaning the diaper area well at each change. Too much bathing can dry out their skin, especially in the early weeks. Sponge bathe your newborn until their umbilical cord stump has fallen off and healed. Then you can bathe them in a baby bathtub or sink.

Sleep for You and Your Baby

Sleep often feels like the holy grail for new parents. While your baby may sleep a lot, the irregular patterns and short stretches can leave you feeling physically and emotionally drained. Understanding infant sleep and following expert-recommended routines can ease your mind and help the whole family rest better.

• Will we ever sleep again? Newborns typically sleep 14–17 hours in a 24-hour period, but it's spread across day and night in short chunks. This can be exhausting, especially for first-time parents. Help your baby develop healthy sleep habits by keeping the nighttime environment dark and quiet, following a consistent bedtime routine, and letting them nap when tired during the day.

• Are they breathing? It's extremely common to feel panicked when your baby is sleeping soundlessly—many new parents confess to checking their baby's chest movement or placing a finger under their nose. This anxiety about nighttime with a newborn is completely normal. Rest assured, babies often sleep very quietly. If your baby is sleeping on their back, on a firm, flat mattress with no pillows or loose bedding, they are in the safest possible sleep position. Many babies will exhibit Periodic Breathing, a normal breathing pattern in infants, especially newborns, characterized by pauses in breathing followed by rapid, shallow breaths. These pauses typically last for 5-10 seconds and are followed by a few rapid breaths, after which the breathing returns to a normal, steady rhythm. This pattern is most common in premature infants and typically resolves by 6 months of age.

• Are they too hot or too cold? Babies are sensitive to temperature changes, and it’s a common concern among new moms and dads. The ideal room temperature for sleep is between 68–72°F (20–22°C). A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear. Signs they may be too hot include sweating, flushed skin, or rapid breathing. If they’re too cold, their hands and feet may feel chilly, though this is not always a cause for concern. Remember to not use blankets in the crib. Instead, use infant sleep sacks.

• When can I stop worrying about SIDS? This is one of the most frequent fears of new parents. The risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) peaks between 1 to 4 months and significantly decreases after 6 months. To reduce risk, always place your baby on their back to sleep, keep their sleep space clear of soft items, avoid overheating, and consider room-sharing (but not bed-sharing) for the first 6 to 12 months.

• Why isn’t my baby sleeping through the night? It’s normal for babies not to sleep through the night during the first few months. Their tiny stomachs require frequent feeding, usually every 2 to 4 hours. Sleep consolidation typically begins around 3 to 4 months, but each baby is different. Following age-appropriate wake windows, a calming bedtime routine, and giving your baby time to self-settle when they stir can all promote better sleep.

• Is it okay to nap when the baby naps? Yes! This is one of the best tips for first-time parents—rest when you can. Household chores can wait. Taking short naps when your baby sleeps, even during the day, can reduce sleep deprivation and improve your ability to care for your baby. Remember, if you’re struggling due to a lack of sleep, reach out for help. If possible, ask friends, family members, or a local babysitter to take care of your little one while you take some time to unwind.

To help you establish healthy sleep habits from day one, check out the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers app. It guides you step by step through newborn sleep fundamentals, including everything from how to set up the perfect sleep environment to the importance of bedtime.

Bonding With Your Baby

Forming a close bond with your newborn is one of the most rewarding and sometimes confusing parts of becoming a parent. While movies make it look instant, bonding can be a gradual process, especially for new moms and dads who are adjusting to physical recovery, hormonal changes, and new routines.

• What if I don’t feel connected to my baby right away? Not all parents feel an immediate emotional bond, and that’s completely normal. It can take days or even weeks to build that connection, especially for first-time parents navigating exhaustion and overwhelm. Bonding grows through repeated moments of closeness, comfort, and care. You can learn more about bonding with your baby as the non-birthing parent in our dedicated article.

• How can I build a stronger bond with my baby? Skin-to-skin contact, feeding (whether breast or bottle), gentle eye contact, and cuddling are powerful ways to foster emotional closeness. Talking, singing, and holding your baby during quiet moments also helps them feel safe and loved.

• Does struggling to bond mean I’m a bad parent? Absolutely not. Feeling disconnected doesn’t mean you’re failing. Emotional connection may take time to develop, and it's okay to ask for support from a healthcare provider, partner, or mental health professional during this process.

• Why does my baby seem unsettled or fearful? Sometimes babies appear fearful or avoidant, especially if they’re overtired, overstimulated, or adjusting to new surroundings. This isn’t a reflection of your bond. Be patient and consistent in your care. If you’re concerned about emotional responsiveness, speak with your baby’s healthcare provider for guidance and reassurance.

Managing Your Baby’s Crying

Crying is how babies communicate, and during the newborn phase, there can be a lot of it. While it’s completely normal, excessive crying can leave new parents feeling helpless and frustrated. Knowing how to respond (and when to take a break) is one of the best tips for first-time parents.

• How do I know what my baby needs when they cry? Start by checking the basics: hunger, a dirty diaper, sleepiness, or discomfort. Many newborns cry during the evening as part of normal development, a phase sometimes called the “witching hour.”

• What helps soothe a fussy baby? Try calming techniques like swaddling, rocking, walking with your baby, using white noise, or offering a pacifier. These methods mimic the womb environment and help calm your baby's nervous system.

• What if nothing I do works? Sometimes, even after trying everything, babies continue to cry. This can be normal, especially during growth spurts or if your baby has colic. If the crying feels excessive or you're concerned, always check in with your healthcare provider.

• What if I feel overwhelmed? Caring for a crying baby can be emotionally draining. It’s okay—and healthy—to place your baby safely in their crib and step away for a few minutes to breathe and regroup. This is one of the most important new mom-to-be tips: your well-being matters too.

Questions About Your Due Date

It’s completely normal to feel some anxiety about giving birth, especially if it’s your first time. Many expectant parents experience a mix of excitement and apprehension as the due date approaches. Learning what to expect and finding the right support can help you feel more prepared and in control.

• What if I don’t know what to expect during labor? Taking a prenatal or birthing class is one of the best tips for first-time parents. These classes cover the stages of labor, pain relief options, and coping techniques, helping to reduce the fear of the unknown. Join our free online Birthing Classes to help you prepare for labor, delivery, and beyond.

• Should I make a birth plan? Yes—but keep it flexible. A birth plan helps you communicate preferences for labor, delivery, and postpartum care, but birth rarely goes exactly as planned. Be prepared to adapt as needed with your medical team’s guidance.

• I’m anxious about birth—who can I talk to? You’re not alone in feeling anxious. Talk to your midwife, OB, or doula about your fears. They can explain procedures, answer your “what if” questions, and offer reassurance. Connecting with other parents can also help normalize your experience.

• How can I reduce stress during pregnancy? Mindfulness, prenatal yoga, light exercise, journaling, and deep breathing are all excellent ways to ease tension. Making time to relax can improve your physical and mental well-being during pregnancy.

• How do I enjoy pregnancy and not worry all the time? Try to focus on one day at a time. Celebrate small milestones, track your baby’s development, and practice gratitude for the journey. Seeking balance between preparation and self-care is key for any new mom-to-be.

The Bottom Line

Yes, a new baby requires a lot of care and attention, which can feel overwhelming. However, it's important to remember that people have been raising babies for thousands of years. Throughout history, countless new parents have faced the same fear of "I’m going to mess this up," and most have managed just fine. You will, too.

The very fact that you’re reading this shows that you are a caring, detail-oriented, and loving individual. While there may be some trial and error on your parenting journey, you will become comfortable with it quickly. Before long, you’ll be the one offering advice to others!

Enjoy the journey! You’ve got this!

And to help you along the way, download the Pampers Rewards app. Not only will you have access to exclusive content, but you’ll also earn Pampers Cash on all those diapers and wipes you’ll need for your new arrival.

_{How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.}