Preparing for Childbirth: Essential Tips

From the moment we discover we are expecting a baby, our lives are filled with emotions and our bodies begin to transform to receive this special gift.

As the months pass, anxiety grows, and in the 40th week of pregnancy, the body usually signals that the big moment is approaching: Birth stage

It is ideal for the future mother to organize herself and prepare in advance for this moment, avoiding leaving everything until the last minute.

In today’s post, we’ve put together some important tips to help you prepare in the best possible way for the big moment!

Exercise Regularly

It is important that before starting any physical exercise, the pregnant woman first consults her trusted doctor and is also accompanied by a qualified professional specialized in caring for pregnant women.

If your doctor says you are fit for physical activity, opt for comfortable clothes and shoes, drink enough water, and always stretch before starting the activities.

During pregnancy, practicing some physical activity helps to alleviate the discomfort and pain that are caused by the changes that occur in the woman’s body. It also promotes muscle strengthening and facilitates performance during childbirth.

Here are some exercises that act as strengtheners:

• Lean your back against the wall, place your feet apart to maintain balance, and slide down until your thighs are parallel to the floor, then return to the starting position.
• Place your hands and knees on the floor, and keep your head at the same angle as your back. Pull in your belly and arch your back upwards.
• Sit on the floor with your back against the wall, bring your feet together and let your legs form a butterfly shape, and push your legs with your elbows.

Prepare Mentally

Pregnancy includes childbirth and motherhood, both of which come with a significant emotional load.

Therefore, it is important to be psychologically prepared to face the baby’s birth calmly and even the many daily challenges that every mother experiences.

At the time of birth, it is advisable to be accompanied by your partner or a close family member to feel more relaxed and secure, and thus better tolerate the normal pain of contractions.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Pregnancy is considered by many experts as a factor that can lead to obesity in women’s health. It is crucial that the pregnant woman maintains a healthy diet throughout the 9 months, as this directly influences the baby’s weight and size.

Therefore, it’s ideal to replace processed foods with more natural and healthy choices.

A balanced diet directly supports the proper development and strengthening of the child, as well as preventing complications during pregnancy and postpartum.

If needed, seek the help of a nutritionist to guide you in the best possible way according to your case.

Get to Know the Maternity Ward and Medical Team

It is essential to familiarize yourself with the maternity ward before the big moment, paying attention to the facilities and whether they are prepared for the type of delivery you have chosen.

Also, check if the necessary equipment is available in case of an emergency.

We hope everything goes perfectly, but it’s important to consider everything.

Prepare Your Hospital Bag

We know that babies don’t have a specific arrival time! Therefore, from the 36th week onwards, you can have everything ready. If you need to rush out, you won’t have to worry about gathering everything you need.

To help you a bit more, see what should not be missed in your bag and the baby’s:

Mother’s Bag

• Slippers or low shoes
• Comfortable panties
• Socks
• Pajamas or nightgowns with front openings
• Personal hygiene products
• Lactation bra
• Postpartum pads
• Phone numbers of people who need to be notified
• Clothes for leaving the hospital
• Cell Phone to record the moment
• Prenatal card
• Personal documents

Baby’s Bag
The baby’s suitcase must be well prepared, ensuring that nothing is missing.

Check below a list of items for winter and summer, depending on the season in which your baby is born!

It’s important to note that all clothes the baby will wear should be washed before use. Always use mild soap for this.

Winter

• Long-sleeved bodysuits
• Light jumpsuits
• Thin tights
• Caps and gloves
• Soft bath towels
• Disposable diapers

Summer

• Short sleeve bodysuits
• Thin socks
• Light bath towels
• Light blankets
• Disposable diapers

Recognize the Signs of Labor

One of the first signs that indicate that the moment of birth is approaching may be the loss of the mucous plug. Many women also experience regular contractions that intensify over time.

Therefore, it is important to be aware of these signs and monitor their intensity and frequency.

Another clear sign is the rupture of the amniotic sac, also known as “breaking your water”. This event can happen suddenly.

If there are any questions or concerns, please contact a healthcare professional for guidance.

Recognizing these signs allows for a quick and appropriate response, ensuring a safer and more peaceful birth experience.

Conclusion

Identifying the signs of labor is critical to a safe and successful birth experience.

Being aware of symptoms such as regular contractions, loss of mucus plug and rupture of the amniotic sac allows you to make informed decisions and seek medical help when necessary.

Additionally, listening to your body and trusting your instincts can provide valuable information about the onset of labor.

Preparing properly and knowing when to seek medical assistance ensures that both you and your baby receive the necessary care, contributing to a smoother and safer birth.