More preparation=more free time after birth
It will give you more time to connect with your baby, to rest and recover. It will allows you to avoid putting additional pressure and focus on what is important: your well-being and your baby.
Good prenatal preparation is a game-changer. It literally gives you the chance to experience the postpartum period better.
Often, this is one of the differences between first-time moms and mom of several babies, we understand the importance of proper prenatal preparation!
While accompanying many parents, I have observed that often we prepare for baby (baby registry, baby's room etc). This is already a great start, but prenatal preparation also includes other elements.
Here are several ideas to guide you in your prenatal preparation:
Preparing food
- Organize a cooking day.
-Prepare frozen meals.
-Make sure you have frozen vegetables and frozen fruits (ideal for smoothies:)
-Treat yourself with some frozen dishes that can save the day and be good back-up plan.
-Buy non-perishable food (crackers, granola bars, dried fruits and nuts, cereals, etc.)
-Make sure you have recipes that are easy to make and complete with some research.
-Solicit your partner: what are these specialties dishes they could prepare after birth?
Winning idea: Meal train
You can ask a family member to organize a pick-up of small casseroles or trail-meal. It's one of the best gifts for a new mom: not to have to think about meals in those first days!
Preparing your house
- Make non-perishable purchases (non-perishable food, Kleenex, toilet paper, cleaning product, pharmacy, etc.)
- Organize and order the house. Sort and keep what you use and love, otherwise give back to charity.
- Do a good clean up.
Green shift?
If you are interested in taking care of our planet, there are several ecological products which have the advantage of being durable. I therefore encourage you to visit your ecological store or even online.
My favorite homemade cleanser? Mixture of water (1 liter) and vinegar (10ml) to which you can add a few drops of essential if you want. Put in a spray bottle and tada! This product can be used on the vast majority of surfaces.
Preparing for baby
- Make the necessary purchases for baby.
- Wash baby clothes.
- Prepare the diaper bag. Here is a complete list and my suggestions.
- Install the car seat and review how to secure baby in it.
*** Become familiar with the sling, the baby carrier, the stroller etc.
-If you have bottles or pacifiers, sterilize them.
In this article Preparing your home for baby arrival, you will find all the tips.
Preparing for birth
- Prepare your hospital bag.
- Arrange for the care of your other children or pets while you are in hospital.
- If you wish, download an application to calculate contractions and/or track your baby's feedings, stools and urine. You can also simply use a small notebook.
- Know driving direction to birthplace / phone number / parking option
Reminder: Before going to your place of birth, give them a call. They will be able to do a first telephone assessment and prepare for your arrival :)
-Agree on a method to reach each other quickly and know it's important (for example: 2 consecutive calls=call me right away please)
Getting all the essentials for post-natal period
Avoid running to the pharmacy, check out this short list of essentials for taking care of yourself, both for the wardrobe and for the essentials for the bathroom. As a bonus, you'll also get two key tips.
TREAT YOURSELF and REST
The last trimester is also the time to take care of yourself. Listen to your body. When you have tired, don't hesitate to take a little nap. When you have some energy, you use it for the above preparations.
Here are some other suggestions:
- Try to keep days for you, only for you. Take the opportunity to do activities you like.
- Take the opportunity to make yourself a beauty: hairstyle and even manicure if you like.
- Take the opportunity to relax: spa day, moment of relaxation and meditation, listening to relaxing music, etc.
- Maybe organize a little special outing on your due date (ideally, a flexible activity like a restaurant outing). Especially if you are getting impatience to see your precious baby, it will elp your mood.
In conclusion
I hope this list and tips help and guide you. Don't hesitate to ask for a helping hand, it's much easier and more motivating. Once everything is ready, I personally find it reassuring and much easier to let go.
So, I wish you a good prenatal preparation and a birth with full confidence :)
Karine
Hi there!
I am Karine.
I created Birthing with Confidence (prenatal classes and workshops | Postnatal follow-up | Breastfeeding support | Blog) to help YOU have a better birth experience and times with your little baby. I want to support you in this great adventure!
I dare you to believe in yourself!
Let's connect together! You can contact me and follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.