Planning to get a baby? Then there are several things that you need to know about birthing. The information you gather may be very useful to you in various situations and help you to make your pregnancy a joy, rather than something that you do not want to endure again. Read a lot of books and magazines. Browsing the internet is also a good idea to learn about pregnancy, labor and delivery. Attending childbirth classes are also beneficial. Since every woman has a different experience, do not get inspired or terrified by listening to stories. But keeping some useful information handy will help you a lot in dealing with every situation. Given below are 10 things you should know about labor & delivery.
1. Messy experience
Most of you may have seen on the television how child birth takes place. The lady makes a lot of gasping and huffing and even cries out in pain or try to grab the dear and near ones standing nearby. She may be feeling really helpless and miserable too with all of them crying out ‘to push.’ There can be a similar situation with fluids coming out from each and every orifice at the same time.
2. Dress to wear
Wearing your own nightgown while giving birth may not be very practical because you may never know how comfortable or not it is going to be. Most of the experts advise you to use the hospital gown because it is soft and more comfortable. Though it may not be very glamorous, it is really practical.
3. People for support
It depends on the person whether you need to have more than one person for your support. However, it is a good option to have more than one person like your husband and mother or sister beside you because they will have the chance to take breaks and stay near you. At the crucial moment, you can get the support from all of them too.
4. Start of labor
If you are a first time mom-to-be, then you may just have the idea by reading some literature or listening to your close friends about the labor pain. You can make out the beginning of labor because you will have severe pain at regular intervals due to the contractions and it will last for long time too.
5. Food is important
Since you will not have eaten proper meals just before giving birth, all you need after your baby arrives is food. The hospital food may not be sufficient for you. In that case, you can get your favorite foods from home. Maybe your mother or sister can cook your favorite dish and give it to you. There is nothing more satisfying than having a delicious meal after your baby’s arrival.
6. Hygiene for your baby
It may seem quite odd but you have to take care of your baby’s hygiene too. Request your guests to wash their hands before taking the baby and not to kiss him. It could be harmful to the newborn. Being careful to this extent can save you from future ordeals with a sick child.
7. Helping hand
If you are alone at home, you need to have someone to help you with the household chores. Even if you have none other than your mother-in-law, she may be helpful during this time. She may be able to help you to do the cooking, laundry and other housework when you take care of your baby and his needs.
8. Maintain a journal
From the day one, maintain a journal and note down whatever you like. Though not a serious writer, try to put in all your thoughts, feelings and other aspects you experience during pregnancy. All these things can be very interesting to read after your child arrives. It becomes one of your most precious belongings.
9. Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a new experience especially to first-time moms. It may not be as simple as you see in the movies or the television shows that you feed and your baby drinks happily. It may be quite difficult in the beginning because your baby has to learn to suck the milk from the nipples. It might hurt slightly in the beginning especially when the milk gets accumulated if your baby does not learn to drink properly. Do not worry as these things happen in the initial stages and will improve in a few days. There is more to go through when your baby gets his teeth!
10. Doing things right
Once you bring your baby home, ensure that you take care of his needs on the right time. You may get to hear a lot of advice from your dear and near ones. But you know what is best for your baby. So, follow your instincts and let things happen naturally. Never force things if you feel that they are not meant for your baby.
