You're in the home
stretch now, so it's important you use your time wisely. Make
final decisions about your labor and birth, and
to avoid extra work when your baby arrives, stock up on infant
supplies.
- See your practitioner
regularly: usually about once a month through week 28; every two
weeks until 34 weeks; and once a week thereafter.
- Load up on diapers or check
into diaper service.
- Purchase outing equipment
(stroller, carriage, car seat, baby carrier, and diaper bag).
- Stock up on feeding
supplies (cloth burp pads, breast pump, bottles and nipples).
- Prepare a medicine chest
for the baby, including diapering accessories, baby acetaminophen
and other supplies.
- Create a phone list of
people who have volunteered to help you when your labor begins and
after the birth.
- Get as much rest as you
can. Try to nap at least 15 minutes a day.
- Let yourself be emotional
-- it's normal and natural.
- Try to stay hydrated and
energized by drinking plenty of water, cool drinks and freezer pops.
- Discuss with your partner
your upcoming labor (fears and concerns, pain management and
C-section) so you feel comfortable with birth options. (Have
your Birth Plan ready!)
- Pick out an
announcement-card style, and prepare your list of recipients.
- Discuss the details of
labor and birth with your practitioner, including potential
complications, such as induced labor and C-section.
- Pack a LaborGear
Bag for the hospital (socks or slippers, hairbrush, hair clips,
bathrobe and toiletries).
- Take a break from baby
stress to pamper yourself. Or better yet, have someone else pamper
you. Get a massage, manicure, or go
shopping.
- Breastfeeding or formula?
At least initially, consider breastfeeding. Both you and your baby
will benefit immensely.
- Familiarize yourself with
the details of the hospital or birth
center: how to get there, where
to park, what entrance to use. Also, pre-register and get a head
start on some of the paperwork.
- Discuss with your partner
how you feel about circumcision.
- Make time to dine out, go
to the movies and enjoy this time before your little one arrives.
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