Becoming a mum for the fifth time two months ago felt both beautifully familiar… and like I was starting all over again. You’d think by baby number five I’d have it all figured out, but those early weeks still hit hard. The round-the-clock feeding, the exhaustion that seeps into your bones, and the emotional rollercoaster of establishing breastfeeding, it’s a lot.
Those long nights blur into early mornings, and somehow, even after being up half the night, the day still begins. Four other little people still need breakfast, school runs don’t pause, and life carries on at full speed. My husband was an absolute godsend during those first two weeks on paternity leave; truly, I don’t know how I would have coped without him. But when he went back to work, it was time to find my rhythm again and step back into the chaos (and beauty) of everyday life as a mum of five.
Over the years, I’ve learned that having a few key essentials can make all the difference during those survival-mode newborn weeks. These are the things that genuinely helped me this time around.
Convenience is Everything
When you’re feeding a newborn around the clock, even the smallest tasks can feel overwhelming. Having one less thing to think about each day is invaluable, which is why I absolutely love Oato.
There’s something quite nostalgic about the idea of milk deliveries, but Oato has given it a modern, plant-based twist. Their range; from Barista Whole to Chocoloato, Strawberry Oatshake, and even Caffè Latte, can be delivered straight to your doorstep via milk rounds like Modern Milkman and Milk & More.
Honestly, it’s such a small change, but having fresh oat milk arrive without needing to think about it feels like a little luxury in those early days. Whether it’s your morning coffee after a sleepless night or a quick drink between feeds, it’s one less thing on your mental load and that’s priceless.
Survival for Sleep-Deprived Mums
Sleep deprivation hits differently when you’re up every couple of hours feeding a newborn. By week two, my eyes were feeling it; dry, sore, and constantly tired.
That’s where TheraTears Overnight Restore Eye Drops became a little lifesaver. They’re incredibly soothing and perfect for using before bed (or what little sleep you can grab). It’s a small act of self-care, but one that makes you feel just a tiny bit more human.
Nourishing Your Body from Within
Postpartum recovery isn’t just about rest — it’s also about replenishing your body. Between pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding, your body gives so much, and it really needs support.
Alongside general supplements like Vitamin D, I’ve been taking Prenatal DHA by Wiley’s Finest. It’s specifically designed to support women before, during, and after pregnancy, delivering a high-quality dose of Omega-3s in just two small, easy-to-swallow capsules.
What I love is that it’s gentle on the stomach (which is so important postpartum), and it supports everything from baby’s brain and eye development to postpartum mood balance. It also helps increase DHA levels in breast milk, which gives that extra reassurance when you’re feeding.
Knowing it’s independently tested and carefully purified gives real peace of mind too – because what you put into your body matters, especially during this stage.
Gentle Skincare for the Whole Family
Newborn skin is so delicate, and with little ones prone to dryness or irritation, having a reliable, natural product on hand is essential.
Nature’s Repair Balm by Green Therapy has been a staple for us. It’s designed for children but gentle enough for the whole family, which is ideal in a busy household like mine.
Packed with ingredients like calendula, hemp oil, and lavender, it’s perfect for soothing dry patches, calming irritation, and keeping skin nourished. It’s one of those products you find yourself reaching for daily; for baby, for the kids, and even for yourself.
Postpartum Beauty Boosts
Let’s be honest; those early weeks don’t leave much time for self-care. But even small rituals can make a big difference in how you feel.
Hair changes after pregnancy are so real. Whether it’s thinning, dryness, or just feeling a bit lacklustre, I’ve been loving the Giovanni Biotin & Collagen Collection. With ingredients like biotin, collagen, and hyaluronic acid, it helps strengthen and nourish hair without any harsh ingredients — plus it’s vegan and cruelty-free, which I always look for.
For skincare, tired skin is inevitable when sleep is in short supply. The Sukin Glow Active-C Range has been brilliant for bringing back a bit of glow. With Vitamin C and niacinamide, it helps brighten and protect the skin, making you look a little more awake than you feel.
I’ve also been reaching for P Louise skincare sets – they’re easy to use, effective, and perfect when you want a quick routine that still feels like a treat.
Baby Wearing: A True Lifesaver
One thing I truly couldn’t have managed without this time around is baby wearing. When you have other children to look after, sitting still all day just isn’t an option – no matter how much your newborn might want to be held (which is… a lot!).
Having a good baby carrier has been an absolute godsend. It allows me to keep baby close, settled, and comforted, while still having my hands free to get on with the school run, tidy the house, or simply make a cup of tea.
Those newborn days are all about closeness, and baby wearing gives you that while still allowing you to function – especially when life doesn’t slow down for baby number five.
The first few weeks with a newborn are intense, emotional, and exhausting. No matter how many times you’ve done it before. But they’re also incredibly special.
For me, it’s been about finding small ways to make life easier, whether that’s through convenient deliveries, supportive supplements, gentle skincare, or simply having the right tools to keep going.
Because sometimes, survival in those early days isn’t about doing everything perfectly – it’s about finding what works for you and leaning into anything that makes life feel just that little bit lighter.
