Planning for a new baby is momentous and thrilling for parents-to-be, and it is very normal to also feel some anxiety and uncertainty. Every woman and every baby is a distinct individual and many elements of pregnancy and childbirth can’t be predicted. You are not necessarily going to experience the same pregnancy or labor as your mother, sister or best friend. Despite the inevitable surprises for even experienced mothers, it is helpful to make the decisions you can ahead of time, based on personal preferences, health conditions and delivery options available. Before you get pregnant, have a pre-pregnancy visit with your primary care doctor. During a pre-
conception visit, doctors will discuss your family history, medical and dental status (gum disease may cause preterm labor), and any medications you are taking
that could affect the health of your baby. This is also a good time to talk about prenatal vitamins that include folic acid. Since neural tube defects occur before most women know they are pregnant, most health-care providers recommend women take folic acid even before they become pregnant. There are a few caregiver options to consider: An obstetrician is a physician with specialized training in pregnancy and childbirth, and there are also perinatologists who have additional expertise in high-risk pregnancies and deliveries.
After consulting with your health plan to determine your options for caregivers, schedule a time to meet with a provider. Check to see if you find the office environment comfortable and accessible. Ask such questions as: “How many babies do you deliver each week?” and “What is your general philosophy concerning pregnancy and birth?” Women today have many options for pain control during labor. As you are planning for pregnancy and birth, learn as much as you can about medications and nonmedical coping strategies. Talk with your health-care provider and partner about your choices.
Whether you have pain medication during labor and delivery, breathing and relaxation techniques are very useful. In fact, studies have shown that the more relaxed you are the more effective pain medications become. Breathing properly through discomfort, focusing and consciously working to not tighten your voluntary muscles is an excellent method to support labor. This is where good education makes all the difference, and it is worthwhile to attend classes on childbirth preparation, particularly for first-time parents. Being educated about what happens physically during childbirth, possibilities and options helps the whole experience. Other class options for expectant parents include prenatal yoga, breastfeeding, fathering, infant CPR and car-seat safety. Before labor, familiarize yourself with your infant car seat. Have it safely installed several weeks before the expected due date, and know how to adjust the straps for a proper fit. This saves the scramble at your car with a newborn baby in your arms.
Expectant fathers, partners and other support persons play a key role in the labor and delivery room. After months of helping support the pregnancy, this is the time to play a more active role as an encourager. Most women seem to appreciate a calm and nurturing loved one by their side, who can help promote relaxation and feel supported in familiar ways (massages, words of encouragement, hand-holding, and so on). Expectant dads can add some extra comfort items to the overnight bag, such as recordings of favorite music, and a focal point like a photograph of a favorite vacation spot or beloved pet. Partners should remember to bring some light, odor-free snacks to keep up their energy levels; labor can last 15 to 20 hours. Generally, for a normal vaginal birth, moms stay in the hospital 24 hours after delivery. For a normal, uncomplicated C-section, moms generally stay 48 hours. Studies show that people sleep much better in their own beds than in a hospital environment, and quality rest promotes quicker healing and recovery.
Because most hospital stays are brief for healthy mothers and babies, being prepared with outside help can make a huge difference. It’s also a good idea to have some meals ready to eat at home, and always say “yes” when someone offers to bring food. Consider hiring a doula, who can help with caring for you, your baby, light housework and breastfeeding problem solving. For the many families who have no close family nearby, this kind of service is growing increasingly popular and there are several good agencies who serve the Eastside. After bringing your baby home, get as much rest as you can. Nap when the baby naps. It is wise to try to limit visitors the first few weeks to give the mom and baby, who may both be learning the fine art of breastfeeding, time for quiet, connection and calm. The most important priority is a healthy mom and healthy baby. Birth is an exciting and life-changing event, so pursue education, support and practical preparation. For information on childbirth classes, visit www.overlakehospital.org.
