Preparing For Delivery

Preparing for Delivery

If you were to ask a mother if childbirth was at all like it is on TV, she would probably say “absolutely not”. The rushing around the house, throwing things into the car, and the sudden onset of labor are not as realistic or common as TV shows or movies make them out to be. For routine pregnancies, there is plenty of time to prepare for delivery! There are three main focus points when preparing for the big day: preparing your body, preparing your home, and packing your hospital bag. 

Preparing Your Body 

During childbirth, even for a routine birth, a mother’s body goes through extreme changes and trauma. Because every birth is different, there is no telling exactly what to prepare for. However, you can take measures to practice for the big day and allow your body to get ready for the baby’s arrival. 

One way to prepare your body is by taking childbirth classes. In these classes, you can learn proper ways to breathe during labor as well as safe laboring positions. When you practice some of these techniques, you can feel confident during labor. 

Another way to prepare is by getting rest and feeding your body in the days leading up to delivery. Delivery can come at any time of the day so you need to ensure your body is well-rested! 

Finally, talk to your doctor about incorporating movement to help ease the labor process. Light movement can include the use of an exercise ball or going on short walks. 

Preparing your Home

Getting your home ready to bring in a new baby isn’t as daunting as you may think. Yes, baby-proofing is important, but in reality, your newborn is not going to move around the living space just yet! 

Get your home in order by preparing freezer meals ahead of time so you do not have to worry about cooking in the first few days of having a newborn. 

Make sure you have made arrangements for child care. Some families find it important to include siblings in any way possible while others find it best to keep older children at home. Make sure you and your support person are on the same page when it comes to where your older children will be. 

Preparing your Hospital Bag

Packing your hospital bag, along with the other preparations mentioned above, should be something done at about 36-37 weeks of a normal, routine pregnancy. Labor can begin at any time within the last few weeks so it is important to be ready. Prepare for a 24-48 hour stay and remember that the hospital will have all essentials. Here are some things to include: 

• An extra-long phone charger
• Your birthing plan (if using one) 
• Pediatrician’s information
• Change of clothes
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hair brush, chapstick) 
• Change of clothes (make sure comfort is key) 

When it comes to diapers and wipes for the baby as well as postpartum care products such as adult diapers, the hospital will provide everything necessary. 

You will also need to have a car seat that is properly secured in order to take the baby home. There are many different types of infant seats on the market, so make sure that whatever you choose, it follows federal guidelines for safe car seats.

Do What You Can! 

It is so important to note that every pregnancy, labor, and delivery is unique. While you can do everything possible to prepare for the big day, there are still events where things do not go according to plan. Our birthing center at CCMH will ensure you have the best care as well as comfort during your journey. Learn more about labor and delivery at CCMH.