If you are going to be a new mom, whether you do it alone or as a team with a co-parent or a comadre, there are certain details that you must take into account. These can help your pregnancy and delivery go as smoothly as possible. After all, all the predictions we can make will pay off in the long run.
It is natural for a woman to feel nervous when she knows that she is going to be a new mom. But we have to try to stay calm and try to understand everything that needs to be taken into account.
Advice before childbirth
1. Have baby clothes ready
Try to buy clothes for babies from zero to six months. You must keep in mind that a baby grows quickly. On the other hand, there are babies who are born larger than others and it is okay to have clothes of different ages.
Of course, the new clothes for the baby should be washed and stored preferably in hermetic plastic bags. You should do the same with blankets, towels, cloth diapers, stuffed animals and everything that will come into direct contact with the baby.
2. Prepare and freeze food
Take your time to cook several meals for the first week. This is a good strategy that you can use to ease the first days, which are mostly adaptation.
The options that should not be missing in your freezer are the following:
- Purees
- Salads (not dressed).
- Fresh (and clean) vegetables.
- Natural smoothies.
- Fruits (washed)
3. Gather basic care and grooming items for the baby
It is essential that every new mother prepare certain elements before the arrival of her baby; for example, the crib, the changing table or the car seat. But, beyond this, you must also provide a supply of other necessary objects:
- Formula milk and bottles. In case you plan to breastfeed your baby, these two products will not be necessary during the first days. If not, buy formula and two bottles.
- Personal hygiene items for your baby. Baby shampoo, baby wipes, soaps, talcum powder, baby nail clippers, moisturizing lotion or cream, bath sponge, lotions, etc.
- Cream for irritations or chafing. The diaper can cause small lesions on your baby's skin that are easy to heal with the appropriate cream. Try to always have it on hand.
- Diapers. During the first days you will need between 8 and 12. Of course, do not venture to buy many because the baby grows quickly and in a few days he will need a different size.
4. Prepare your hospital bag
Also think of you! It is possible that labor is ahead of time and catches you by surprise; For this reason, try to have your hospital bag ready a few weeks in advance. In it you must enter everything you need for your stay (underwear, nightgowns open in front to facilitate breastfeeding, your toiletries bag, some clothes...).
In short, being a new mother seems complicated, but in the end, your own instinct will teach you how to be. These are just some tips to face the new life that awaits you in the best possible way.
Are you considering being a mother by co-parenting? Get in touch with other copadres and comadres in the Copaping Community!
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