Preparing for Your Baby: What Every Expectant Mommy Should Know
Giving birth is life’s biggest miracle. As an expectant mother, you’ll want to be as ready for this moment as possible, so that the whole process goes smoothly. Before the big day arrives, make sure you read through our last minute tips to ensure that you’re fully prepared.
Stock Up on Essentials
When preparing for baby it’s important to have ready all the essentials you’ll need for when the he or she comes home. Make a visit to the drug store for toiletries like pads, baby wipes and diapers. In case of any aches and pains, you’ll want to be prepared with ailments like witch hazel and bio oil. When your little one is ready to come home, you’ll of course be much more tired than usual. A good tip is to cook in bulk and freeze your meals ahead of time. This way you’ll have more time to relax and adjust to being a new mom.
Plan Your Hospital Stay
When the time comes for giving birth, you’ll want to have everything ready to ensure a stress free hospital visit. Discuss with your partner what transportation you’ll take and make sure to pack a bag full of essential items like a phone, phone charger and camera . It might also be a good idea to map out another route if plan A isn’t convenient on the day you come into labor. You don’t want to feel stressed out and not in control at such a special time, so it’s always a good idea to have a birthing plan in place.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help
While getting used to motherhood, it’s a good idea to have your Mom and the people closest to you on speed dial for those times you need a helping hand. Looking after a newborn can be overwhelming and very testing at times, so don’t be afraid to call for backup. Reach out to friends and family for advice. It’s really important to get all the support you can get.
Try Birthing Classes
Birthing classes are an excellent way to prepare for going into labor and knowing the signs. You’ll also learn about the different stages of labor and how to control your breathing. There are different types of birthing classes to choose from, depending on what’s more practical for you. You can opt for an intense all day course or courses at your local hospital where you attend once a week. This is also a great way to meet other expectant moms and gain support and advice.
Know Your Birthing Options
If you’re healthy and your pregnancy is going well then you may be able to choose where you give birth. When picking out your birthing location, make sure you know all the options available to you. For home options, you might want to consider hiring a birthing pool, with the help of an experienced, independent midwife. If you don’t like the idea of giving birth in a hospital, then you also have the option of a birthing center.