How to prepare for the birth of your baby

Expecting a baby is an exciting time filled with preparation. It’s the beginning of a lifelong adventure of parenthood. This scale of a project requires lots of planning, but there are a few things that every new mom should do. Here are our top tips for preparing for the birth of your baby.

Make a birth plan

Though things may not go to plan, it’s still an important part of the preparation process. Laying out a clear plan on paper of what to do once labor begins will ensure that your requests are followed as closely as possible even when you’re too busy to speak up! Think about where you plan to give birth and how so you can identify any further preparation that might be required. For instance, if you’re planning a home birth, you may need additional supplies ahead of time.

Your doctor or midwife should also provide you with clear steps on what to monitor and when to either go to the hospital or to call them. If possible, visit the birthing centre and plan your route from home all the way to your room. Being familiar with your surroundings ahead of time can help you get settled faster and make you feel more comfortable.

Your birth plan should include the list of people to call when labor begins as well as their contact information. You may also want to list who you’ll be allowing in the delivery room—plus a few back up support people just in case something goes awry!

Pack your hospital bag

You can be guaranteed that once labor begins, you’ll be too preoccupied to remember what to pack so make sure you take the time to pack your bag ahead of time. Include things like a change of clothes and some essential toiletries. Plan for a few days stay at the hospital even if you aren’t expecting it—just in case.

If you’re having a home birth, use this to set aside anything you’d like with you during delivery. If you have a favourite shirt or a pillow you think you may need during the frenzy, set it aside now.

Don’t forget to plan ahead for down time and include games and other things to keep you busy.

Book a photoshoot

A newborn photoshoot is an incredible way to commemorate this special time. Consider booking a newborn photoshoot before your due date so that you can be sure that there is availability while your baby is still a newborn!

Many expecting moms also opt for a pregnancy photoshoot to celebrate this special time even more.

Get your baby essentials in order

In most places, you’ll need clothes and a car seat er to leave the hospital with your newborn, so be sure to have these both before your due date. Be sure to pack a few outfits for your baby in case your stay lasts a few days and include a hat to keep their head warm. Include these in your own hospital bag or make one for baby but be sure to leave it in an easy to reach spot so you can grab it during labor or on your way to the hospital.

Other essentials for your baby include diapers, baby wipes, a crib or bassinet for safe-sleeping, and bottles—with either a breast pump or formula to accompany them.

Remember to get clothes and diapers in a variety of newborn sizes since you won’t know how big your baby is until you meet them!

Prepare your home and fridge

You likely won’t have time for much cooking and cleaning once your baby is born, so why not plan ahead? Do it yourself or hire a cleaner to give your home a deep clean before the baby arrives. Pay extra attention to spaces that will be used by your baby, like the nursery or bathtub.

Buy a few frozen lasagnas or do some meal prep of your own to ensure you can make it through those first few weeks without spending much time in the kitchen.

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime

Welcoming a baby into your life is exciting and can be fun with the right amount of preparation. Take advantage of the days and weeks before your due date and set yourself up for a joyous few weeks with your newborn.