Preparing for the Delivery Room

Being a new parent can be scary and overwhelming, and as your due date gets closer and closer the list of things to do just keeps getting longer and longer. Getting ahead on your to-do list will help you keep stress levels down as you prepare to bring your little one into the world. To help you stay on track, here’s a list of reminders before your anticipated D-Day!

Take a Tour of the Delivery Room

Choosing the right hospital is one of the most important steps in preparing for your due date. Doing a walk-through of the check-in desk, delivery room/operating room, recovery room, and nursery is important, so all parties involved are well informed and familiar with the hospital amenities. Along with selecting a hospital, it is important to find an obstetrician who is aware of your questions, concerns, and specifications that are listed in your birth plan. Establishing a rapport with your obstetrician during monthly check-ups is important and will ease unnecessary stress in the delivery room. Taking a tour of the hospital will help you become familiar with the hospital’s policies and allows you to modify your birth plan accordingly before your special day!

Pack a Bag or Two

Knowing what the hospital provides helps you decide on what you can and cannot pack into your hospital bag. Along with your most comfortable blanket and pillow, you also have to consider some logistical items that you’ll need at the hospital.

Things to Bring for Mom:

• Insurance info and/or hospital forms
• Multiple pairs of warm non-skid socks
• Maternity clothes (bras and underwear)
• Toiletries (toothbrush, hair brush, deodorant, face wash, shampoo.conditioner, feminine products)
• Ponytail holders
• Cell phone and charger
• Comfortable clothes to go home in

Things to Bring for Baby:

• Warm blankets
• Going home outfit (appropriate for season, i.e snowsuit for winter)

Read the full list at The Bump

Along with your own hospital bag, don’t forget to pack a bag for your partner, as they’ll be in the hospital right by your side.

Know What to Expect

So you have your obstetrician on speed-dial and your bags are packed and stored in the front closet. You’re weeks away from your due date, and every little movement inside your tummy convinces you that “it’s time”. So to reduce your anxiety levels, here’s a list of things to look out for as your big day approaches:

• There is leakage of clear (amniotic) fluid.
• You experience contractions that are progressively getting stronger and more frequent. (Less than 5 minutes apart.)
• A feeling of decreased fetal movement.

For more information on labor symptoms the professionals at  Anthony C. Quartell M.D. & Associates

Homecoming Prep

Preparing for the delivery room doesn’t stop at the hospital. Arranging your home for your new bundle of joy is an important step. These preparations range from setting up the nursery in your home, to safely installing a car seat, and everything in between. Here are additional steps to consider before bringing baby home.

• Thinking about painting the nursery? Make sure to have that done a few days in advance so the nursery has time to air-out the smell of paint.
• Childproof your home. (i.e. outlets, using gates around the house, door knob covers/locks etc.)
• Double check that you have the proper bedding for your baby’s crib.
• Buy a car seat that properly fits your specific car, and install it before going to the hospital.