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.

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.