5 Things To Do Before You Have Your Baby
So here you are. A few measly weeks before baby arrives and you get to meet the little one(s) who’ve been hugging your bladder for as long as you can remember. You are swollen, tired, uncomfortable, and excited, making these “measly” weeks feel like years and minutes feel like hours. By now, you’ve probably created some semblance of a birth plan, packed a hospital bag, and given your employer an idea of when you will begin your maternity leave (like you’ve actually been able to do any real work these past couple weeks).
So now what? Nest? Sleep?
If you are anything like me, you are too exhausted to nest and too uncomfortable to sleep. The list of “to do” items plays on repeat in my brain, yet doing something about it seems nearly impossible. If it requires leaving the couch, I’m not into it.
So instead of feeling guilty for all the things you aren’t doing, tackle this list of five things you can do before baby, all while propping up your swollen feet.
Image via Jennifer Bruno
1. Read the Books:
Don’t go crazy and read a bunch of them (as I guarantee you they will all contradict one another and make you insane), but read one or two books that help you wrap your brain around a typical day in the life of a newborn. Prepare yourself (best you can) for the cycles of wake time, feeding times, and sleep times, as the likelihood of having the time or brain power to read them once your baby has arrived is slim. Not all the information will sink in or even resonate, yet it will give you a frame of reference and allow you to skim the books quickly when you need confirmation, reassurance, and direction once your baby is home.
2. Research Lactation Support:
If you intend to breastfeed, there is no greater friend than a Lactation Specialist. Even if breastfeeding is a breeze in the hospital, it is highly possible you will find yourself filled with doubt and frustration when you get home. A hungry newborn is enough to send even the most relaxed of mothers into a panic, so arm yourself with support in advance. Research your options. Perhaps your pediatrician’s office has lactation support on staff or your community has support groups? Or, maybe scheduling a home visit with a consultant is the best option for you. Regardless, the piece of mind is invaluable. Local lactation support information can be found by contacting the International Lactation Consultant Association. Additionally, the Affordable Care Act (signed into law in 2010) requires private and commercial insurance policies to cover lactation support and supplies. The coverage varies by plan, so contact your insurance provider in advance to gain a better understanding on your specific policy.
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3. Take an Infant First Aid and CPR Class:
There is no greater way to prepare for the arrival of your baby than to prepare for the unthinkable. The peace of mind gained in just a few hours of life saving education is worth dragging your belly off the couch. Find a local CPR classes at websites like The American Red Cross and The American Heart Association.
4. Plan for the Future:
We’ve all heard it. “Children are expensive!” So why not take a look into preparing for their financial future today? Life will only get busier once your baby makes his or her appearance, so taking steps before their arrival is smart. Research if your state has options for pre-paid college plans or look into opening a 529 plan. For more information on a 529, visit www.savingforcollege.com.
5. Treat Your Feet:
You will most likely be so focused on taking care of your little one, that your own personal pampering will take a backseat… at least for a few months. Take the opportunity while your feet are at their most miserable and get a pedicure. You will appreciate polished toes as you are just a few short weeks away from being able to see them again!
These weeks, while grueling, are a treat. It’s the final countdown of life as you know it. Treat yourself well!
Image via Flickr/ clared23
{Related: 6 Ways to Keep Fit During Your Pregnancy}
Great advise! Baby is due in a week!! Super excited!
Replygood things to know. thank you.
ReplyDefiantly check with insurance about breast pumps mine covers up to $200 of a breast pump but you have to get it from certain company’s no stores so check before you need it. 🙂
ReplyThere is allot of knowledgeable things to be learned they your website. Love skill that you do for mommies and babies. Thank you .
ReplyWe’re so happy to hear you’re finding the site so helpful, Dawn! We’re glad to have you as a part of our community!
Replygood things to know. thank you.
ReplyDefinitely helpful tips…I think I’m gonna sign up for the CPR
ReplyWill do
ReplyAll good things. I’m getting excited. To finally finish getting the nursery prepped to paint so I can start organizing what we already have. Then I can’t wait till the shower so I can organize everything.
ReplyVery Helpful! When i got to know i am pregnant,i was so excited to do some maternity shopping.But i had to wait till the bump arrived.I got some pretty dresses and sleepwears from morph maternity during my 6th month.It has discreet openings for nursing.
ReplyThis Was Helpful, I’m Actually Starting To Work On All Five…
ReplyI’M SO READY NOW!!!!!!
ReplyGoing with a friend in a few weeks. I may only be 10 weeks now but she is due soon 🙂
Replyi cant stress the pedi enough! i just had one and boy it was nice! 😀
ReplyCareful with nail polish I was told to remove mine before delivery. Doctors for some reason want to be able to see your nail color. Something about blood circulation
Replyugh, I need to do so much with just 7 weeks left. But I can’t wait. I think with all the support I have it’ll be easier to do stuff once he’s here. Especially excited to sleep again!
ReplyThebooks will make you crazy with my 1st pregnacy i guerentee i read like 20 the best was What to expect when your expecting lol
ReplyFive Things To Do Before You Have Your Baby..great read
ReplyFive Things To Do Before You Have Your Baby..great read
ReplyI’m glad to hear there is lactation support it’s nerve wracking to think about and all I keep hearing are horror stories so it’s nice to know I can get help from a specialist too.
Replythis is my first child so it was interesting to learn about a lactation specialist and the cpr classes. so many things have gone thru my mind because im trying to plan but not these 2 things so it was nice to read about them!
ReplyYes pedi! I just got a mani/pedi. I am 5 weeks from due date and already planning another in 2 weeks with my nieghbor.
ReplyI definitely need to pamper myself a little before my little girl gets here!
ReplyI PLAN TO GET A PEDICURE SOON
Reply2 more months to go!
Reply2 more months to go 🙂
Reply