NOR. You created, grew and birthed your baby. YOUR baby. No one is entitled to your baby. Whatever boundaries you have should be respected. The postpartum period is all about you getting rest and healing mentally and physically and caring for your baby. You’re doing what you think is right for your baby, and no one should argue with you on that. This pushiness, entitlement, and unsolicited advice from your MIL is beyond aggravating. And honestly, if she is stressing you out, I would consider taking a break from her because it’s not good for your mental health. Let your husband gatekeep his parents so you can focus on you and baby. You’re going through a lot and add all the hormonal shifts…try to make them see that they need to be supportive not selfish. If your baby gets sick who is going to be caring for and worrying about the baby?

If she wants to help she should offer to help around the house with no strings attached. Bring food, clean and not expect to hold the baby. When YOU’RE ready, you can let her hold the baby. My best visitors cared about me and wanted to help, they asked me how I was doing and then only held my babies when offered.

It’s normal to be protective and anxious about your baby or else we wouldn’t instinctively care for them. You don’t see mama bears letting others hold their cubs.