One of my biggest worries when my husband returned to work after my maternity leave was how on earth was I supposed to shower or even use the loo with a tiny human depending on me 24/7? I actually felt a bit silly bringing it up with the midwife, but as it turns out, there really is no such thing as a stupid question. In fact, this one ranks solidly in the top ten most common concerns new moms have!
In an ideal world you might have a peaceful moment to hop in the shower during nap time….butttt babies don’t always follow the plan! Sometimes they only sleep while you’re holding them. Sometimes they cry the second you step away. And sometimes… well, the day just gets away from you as you wade through cluster feeds and nappy changes.
However, a shower can do you the world of good and you deserve to take care of yourself…
So what can help?
Use a bouncer or baby lounger.
Pop your baby in a safe, portable seat and bring them into the bathroom with you while you shower. The sound of running water is often soothing, and they can see, smell, and hear you keeping that connection while you take a few moments for yourself. It might mean leaving the door open just to ensure they don’t get too hot.
Shower when someone else is home.
If a partner, friend, or family member is around, even for 10 minutes, hand the baby over and go. It’s not selfish it’s self-care, and it helps you recharge just enough to keep going.
Keep it short and sweet.
Some days, a 2-minute rinse might be all you get and that’s okay. You’ll feel more human, and sometimes that’s enough.
4.Use cameras
After a few weeks my daughter wasn’t too upset if I left her for a few minutes and so I would ensure that she was safe in the Next To Me crib and set a baby camera up so I could keep an eye on her.
And What About the Toilet?
It sounds silly to say out loud, but even going to the toilet becomes a thing when you have a newborn. You might find yourself speed-weeing during a 30-second calm spell, or holding your baby while awkwardly managing everything else.
Tips for getting through it:
- Baby joins the party!
Set up a safe spot (bouncer, Moses basket, play mat) just outside the bathroom door—or even take them in with you. As long as they’re secure and you can see them, it’s totally fine.
- Talk to them while you’re in there.
Babies are comforted by your voice so sing and chat away!
- Take a deep breath and don’t rush.
You matter too. Even in those chaotic, sleep-deprived moments, it’s perfectly okay to take 30 seconds to meet your own basic needs without guilt. What I’m about to say might cause a few raised eyebrows, but it came straight from my midwife: it’s okay to put your baby down in a safe place and let them cry for a minute or two while you dash to the loo. Seriously, when you’ve got to go, you’ve got to go! Holding it in can lead to all sorts of issues, and let’s be honest… no one needs a UTI on top of newborn life. Your baby will be okay and so will you.