Whether you are expecting your first child or your third, giving birth is not a cakewalk. If it is your first time to have a baby, it is a sheer bliss, but it can be quite overwhelming, too. The first stage is hard as it is the newborn stage. Most likely, your energy will drain as you have to wake up at ungodly hour to breastfeed your baby or change his or her diapers.
Without a doubt, taking care of a baby is no easy job, but you will get the hang of it over time. Know that babies grow up fast, so save every moment you spend time with him or her. However, before you go into labour, there are things you have to do first. If you are a new parent, you may be clueless on what to do. To help you with this dilemma, keep reading everything below.
Enrol in a Childbirth Class
You can enroll in a childbirth class to learn the proper way of breathing and relaxing. Moreover, there are questions you want to ask when it comes to labour, delivery, and postpartum care and management. If you have any fears, you can discuss them in a childbirth class, too.
Create a Birth Plan
A birth plan is your guide to what you want in birth. Create your own and do not emulate the birth plan of your family and friends as it is not exactly what you need.
Study about Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a learning process. If it is your first time breastfeeding, it is important to study the basics of breastfeeding.
Do not forget your Prenatal Check-ups
Do not forget your prenatal check-ups. It is a must for you and your baby. Do it as soon as you discover that you are having a baby. Do not skip appointments with your doctor to make sure you will have a safe pregnancy. If you do not have a doctor yet, visit the best gynecologist Melbourne has clinics or hospitals that you can go to at any time. Talk to him or her about your delivery plans.
Go Shopping
If you have a specific theme in mind, do not shop until you know your baby’s gender. Some of the items you need to shop for your baby are a couple of baby clothes, bath items, and diapers. Buy a crib, too.
Take Care of Yourself
You have to take care of yourself more when you are pregnant. Eat a healthy-balanced diet. Perform light exercises as well. But before you do, consult with your doctor.
Deep Clean your Home
After giving birth, expect that you will lack energy, specifically in the first few weeks. Therefore, deep clean your home before you go into labour. If you can’t do it yourself, hire a professional cleaning company that can do the job for you.
Pack your Bag
Pack the bag for your hospital stay. Bring all the things you need and the things you can’t live without. Create a list so you won’t forget anything.
Prepare Meals Ahead of Time
Stock your freezer with meals that you can reheat without a problem. There are many easy-to-prepare meals that you can factor in.
Make sure to steal a weekend away before you go into labour.