When a baby’s arrival is just around the corner, it’s natural to be nervous, even after months of preparation.
Today’s would-be parents have access to so much information that expecting moms might feel overprepared and underprepared all at once. While nobody can be fully ready to give birth, a few things can help provide some peace of mind before the big day.
Here are some words of wisdom from Kathy Shum-Ellington, DO, OB-GYN on the medical staff at Methodist Dallas Medical Center.
1. HAVE A PLAN, BUT BE FLEXIBLE
When you’re expecting, your doctor may discuss creating a birth plan. A birth plan helps others know what your preferences are during labor and birth.
But keep in mind that although having a plan can help you feel more in control, doctors recommend not clinging too tightly to a plan that might need to change.
“Labor can be unpredictable, and things can change in a matter of minutes,” Dr. Shum-Ellington says. “Be open to changes that can occur because we want what is best for both you and your baby.”
Some things to consider for the list are how you want the delivery room to be set up, including temperature, music and lighting; whom you want in the room during labor; birthing positions; and how you want to feed the baby.
Doctors recommend having ongoing discussions with your OB-GYN, as well as your partner or a family member, about your delivery plans throughout your pregnancy to ensure your preferences are understood and respected.
2. LEARN HOW TO RECOGNIZE LABOR
According to every TV show and movie, if you’re in labor, you’ll know it. In truth, you might be having labor contractions and carrying on with your day as if nothing unusual is happening. Doctors say this is especially true if it’s your first pregnancy.
“Latent labor can take a few days, and you still typically experience contractions that are not very frequent,” Dr. Shum-Ellington says. “Labor occurs when you start having regular, painful contractions every few minutes.”
These more frequent, painful contractions mean you’re in what’s called active labor. Technically, you must be 6 centimeters dilated to be in this stage, and the only way to know for certain is by getting a cervical exam.
If you’re not fully dilated, you could be sent back home to wait a bit longer, but don’t worry! It’s common to be sent home from the hospital during early labor before being admitted for delivery.
3. KNOW WHEN TO WAIT AND WHEN TO INDUCE
While giving birth may come naturally to many, some mothers may need a little help. Induction may be recommended if your doctor is concerned about factors such as high blood pressure or if labor hasn’t started at the 42-week mark.
“Natural labor is awaiting the onset of contractions at home before arriving at the hospital,” Dr. Shum-Ellington says. “Induction of labor is a process where you will receive medication to help ripen and soften your cervix before getting more medication to make the contractions stronger and closer together.”
From first-time moms to high-risk pregnancies, Methodist delivers family-centered support every step of the way.
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According to doctors, the physiology and the actual process are essentially the same. In some situations, if there’s a reason to deliver the baby sooner, it might make sense to induce labor instead of waiting for it to start on its own.
4. DISCOVER YOUR FEEDING OPTIONS
Nursing is often recommended to new parents as an effective way to provide babies with essential nutrients. In addition to breastfeeding directly, breast milk can also be expressed and given to the baby through a bottle.
This process typically begins shortly after birth, with nursing staff assisting the baby in latching for the first feeding. Many hospitals also have lactation consultants available to guide parents on proper latching techniques, recognizing hunger cues, and other helpful tips.
If breastfeeding is part of your plan, it’s also a good idea to explore options like bottle or formula feeding. Challenges such as low milk supply, difficulty with latching, or medical conditions may make breastfeeding difficult, if not impossible.
Fortunately, there are alternative feeding methods that ensure babies get the nutrients they need to thrive and develop healthily.
5. PREPARE FOR POSTPARTUM EMOTIONS
Having a baby brings a flood of emotions. While love is often the most prominent, there can also be feelings of sadness or stress. According to doctors, postpartum blues, postpartum depression, and other fluctuations in mood can be common.
Postpartum blues are mild and typically get better after a few weeks, while postpartum depression is more serious and can last for months or years.
“If you have any concerns about your mood, let your doctor know about it,” Dr. Shum-Ellington says. “We can discuss therapy, medications, and meditation suggestions.”
Both parents can experience postpartum blues or depression, and breaking the stigma around seeking help is key to feeling better as a parent, partner, and person.
Having a baby will bring profound changes to your life. In challenging moments, remember these tips, trust in your abilities, and know that you have what it takes to be an amazing parent.