When I was expecting my first baby, I asked anyone and everyone for whatever insights they were willing to share. Here is a summary of the advice I was given on preparing for birth, along with other information I learned along the way and wished someone had shared. The reality is … nothing can truly prepare you for birth, because the experience is uniquely yours. But I am certain you will recognize certain bits of your story here. And I am forever grateful to all of the moms who imparted their lessons learned.
Part 1 . Preparing for Birth
Part 2 . Birth
Part 3 . Post Birth and Breastfeeding
Part 4 . Other Baby Tips
Part 1 Pre-Birth
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- Birth is physically hard, so one of the best things you can do is prepare your body BEFORE you give birth. It makes post partum recovery so much easier. (And yes . . . easy is all relative.) Check-out the functional progressions and techniques shared by BirthFIT.
- Depending on your birth experience, moving around post partum can be a challenge. If there is anything you absolutely need to get done (clean your bathroom, assemble the crib, paint your toenails, what have you) – do it now. Don’t procrastinate, because the baby could arrive at any point.
- Make sure you are well-stocked with firm pads and liners, wipes, and a squirt bottle (see part 2 birth). I also suggest an inexpensive, small hairdryer. Since you rinse and should not wipe, it can feel a bit swampy down there. The hair dryer makes a huge difference.
- Don’t bother taking much to the hospital. Birth is a messy process. Immediately after birth, you’re going to want to wear the super fashionable (yes … I’m being sarcastic) undies they provide. The hospital gown, while not attractive, is functional, but if you do decide to bring something else, I highly recommend a soft-to-the-touch, short bathrobe. When Little was born, I changed into a jersey robe after birth. It was easy to slip-on and provided quick access for breastfeeding.
- Below is a list of the essentials. Pack your bag early in your third trimester.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Cotton underwear at least 2 sizes too big
- Shoes that are easy to slip-on
- Something comfortable to wear home (if you you haven’t already heard … you’ll look about 5-6 months pregnant when you leave, so don’t pass along your maternity clothes quite yet)
- Snacks (hospital food is not known for being delicious, so send Dad out for food after the birth)
- One take-home outfit for the baby
- Face cleansing towelettes and moisturizer
- Your partner should bring a couple shirts in case the baby spits up or has a blow out
- Things you might be glad you brought: short, soft bathrobe, skincare products
- Find out what accommodations are provided for your partner. Especially since many hospitals move you from the birthing suite into a post partum recovery room once your birth is complete. We learned from personal experience that the hospital “chair” is NOT comfortable. Next time, Husband is going to bring a pillow and sleeping pad, so he can crash on the floor. Yes, the chair was that terrible.
Like all of my posts tied to the birthing process, I’ll close with what I believe to be the most important advice. Trust your intuition. Every baby is different. People will constantly give you unsolicited advice. Take what works for you … and to hell with the rest. (Big smile … I do see the humor in this statement.)
