The forty weeks leading up to birth give you and your partner time to prepare for the birth and the changes that come with a new baby. It’s best to start preparing in the first trimester; otherwise, you’ll find yourself trying to do too much during crunch time (and crunch time should be spent relaxing, getting sleep, and spending time with your partner).
Mentally & Physically
Gain knowledge about pregnancy, delivery and child birth. Look over articles on the Internet and borrow books that other mothers recommend in order to gain some knowledge about the changes your body will undergo during and after pregnancy.
Attend classes.It will be helpful to attend birthing classes in order to know what you can expect when you go into labor, different types of birthing plans, and different techniques on how to handle pain. It’ll be helpful to attend a newborn care class if you have not had recent experience caring for newborns. There are also breastfeeding classes that will prepare you for nursing your baby.
Financially
Wait for the gifts. Don’t spend a lot of money as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. You’ll probably have at least one baby shower where you’ll get supplies. Stock up on comfortable baby pajamas for the weeks following your baby’s birth. When your baby is a month old, take stock of what you still need and shop from there.
Preparing the nursery. Find a place in your home that will act as a sleeping area for your baby. You’ll also want to prepare a place for clothes and supplies. The cost of baby items can add up quickly, but there are several ways to save money. Many items can be purchased second hand or through discount stores. Disposable diapers can be purchased by the case, and you can often find coupons and sales if you shop around.
Purchasing the car seat. Make sure you buy a car seat that you and your partner can easily use; practice putting it in your vehicle, buckling it in, and getting it out. Taking baby home shouldn’t be the first time you buckle the car seat into your car. The safest placement of the car seat is the middle of the rear seat, facing backwards.
Emotionally
Talk to your partner. Tell your partner how you think they’ll be able to help you during labor. Discuss what you’ll need from each other during the newborn period and how you will divide baby and household duties.
Examine your new role and identity. Being a parent is a significant departure from previous professional endeavors. Examine how you feel about this shift in identity through reflection, journaling, talking to a close friend or family member, or a therapist.
Figure out your support system. You and your partner will need help, whether it be someone to make supper every once in a while, wash the dishes or clothes, or to come watch your baby while you take a nap. It’s okay to ask for help. Talk to your parents, siblings, and friends before the birth to see if they’d be willing to help out when needed.
In our next post, we’ll talk about becoming a first-time parent. Make sure to check back.
If you’d like to set up a time to meet up with Reka, you can contact her by phone at 402-881-8125, by email at reka@omaha-counseling.com, or via Twitter or Facebook.
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photo credit: Baby Jonathon via photopin (license)
