Preparation for Delivery
To avoid stress, it is good to prepare for delivery by following:
- Learn about relaxation and breathing techniques. Read more: Breathing in Labor Tips
- Prepare your body with low-impact exercises. Read more: Exercise During Pregnancy , Abdominal Exercise during Pregnancy , Squatting During Pregnancy
- Ask your doctor about any issues or concerns about labor and birth.
- Decide on the hospital for delivery.
- Know – with who will take you to the hospital – the gates and the delivery ward of the hospital for easy access when admitted.
- Choose an individual for support during childbirth, if allowed.
- Decide if you want pain relief or not.
- What to take with you to the hospital (hospital bag)? you may check with your hospital what to bring. Prepare it a few weeks before your due date:
- Paperwork: insurance card, official papers, etc.
- Loose comfortable clothes
- Bottom-up or with zipper in front top for breastfeeding
- Supportive bra for breastfeeding
- Cheap or disposable underwear
- Socks, slippers
- Cardigan or a jacket
- Sleepwear
- Sanitary pads
- Toilet essentials, hairband and hairbrush
- Regular medications, if any
- Going home clothes
- For partner: toiletries, pillow, change of clothes
- For the baby: diapers, blanket, socks, baby clothes, hat, wipes
- Other: chargers, snacks, book, headphones, etc.
- Prepare a car seat for the newborn.
- Plan for who will take care of your other kids.
- Schedule some help around the house, if preferred.
- Stock up on household must-haves and baby essentials before the birth.
- Be flexible as things may not go according to your plan.
