As the last few months of pregnancy close in, most expecting moms scramble to prepare for the arrival of a new baby. It can feel overwhelming to try to think of everything that needs to be done on your own, so below we highlight some areas and ways mom-to-be can prepare before baby comes home.
Optional Procedures
Following delivery, there are a few options for your baby, if a mother would like to utilize them. Circumcision is an option to consider for a son; speak to the doctor about how they perform the procedure and the benefits of it to help make a decision. Another option is cord blood banking. This is planned for well in advance and done immediately following delivery; umbilical cord blood is collected and stored for the family to be potentially used as a stem cell resource down the road, should the need arise. The procedure is painless and harmless, and is becoming a popular choice of families.
Baby’s Skin
Because your baby’s skin is still so delicate, it is much more vulnerable to the irritating effects of harsh chemicals. Before your baby’s clothes are first washed, it may be a good idea to seek out a specially made detergent. Likewise, numerous baby-friendly bath soaps and shampoos are available to make sure your little one stay as comfortable and happy as possible.
Toxic Houseplants
Many common houseplants are toxic, capable of causing irritation or harm to the digestive system, skin and mucus membranes. Your newborn won’t be crawling for a little while, but getting your plants out of reach as soon as possible is a good policy. Babies love to explore their environments with their mouths and won’t hesitate to put leaves and dirt in their mouth when they’re able to.
Childbirth Classes
Whether a first time mother or one more experienced, attending a childbirth class is a good idea to educate mothers on what to expect physically during labor and delivery and ways that the hospital staff can help during delivery with natural or medicinal pain management. It’s also a good opportunity to socialize with other mothers and tour the facility where you’ll be delivering.
Nursing Classes
Many first time mothers who choose to breastfeed their baby are unsure how to go about it or may experience physical discomfort or pain from the act. Attending nursing classes prior to your baby’s birth can help you know what to expect and when something isn’t normal, teach you helpful methods and allows you the opportunity to talk with other expecting and new mothers who are in a similar situation.
The Necessities
Babies don’t need a diverse stock of items to be cared for, just many of a few items. Stocking up on diapers, wipes, bottles, onesies and receiving blankets are some basics that will keep your baby dry, fed and happy. For a nursery, having a safety approved crib, changing table, baby monitors and chair for feeding will be plenty for a mother to care for her newborn. Anything else a mother gets as gifts or for herself will be handy extras to make motherhood easier.
Pediatrician
Parents who wait until after their baby is born to look for a pediatrician may feel more pressure to find one quickly, rather than taking the time to be choosy. Doing this early gives you a chance to find a doctor that you feel the most comfortable with and who shares your utmost dedication to your child’s health and well-being.
When it comes to planning for the arrival of a newborn, some items are quick to come to mind while others are not. It’s okay if a mom-to-be does not think of every single thing that can be done – that’s nearly impossible. Instead, she should focus on taking care of as many preparations ahead of time as possible and know that the rest will fall into place after the baby arrives.
This article was written by Katie Moore. Katie is an active writer within the blogging community who discusses maternity, motherhood, prenatal health, childbirth and other topics within this niche. If you have any questions or would like to connect with Katie please contact by visiting her blog, Moore From Katie or her twitter @moorekm26
