before you go into labor be prepared
There is no way to be 100% ready for your delivery. My labor story is a huge example of that! That was why I wanted to create this post. This one is personal.
If I could go back in time there are things I would have prepared for that I didn’t. I never wanted a medically intervened labor let alone a C Section delivery, but if I would have researched more than just what I wanted, maybe I would have been more prepared.
Either way, this blog is filled with a list of random things I wish I knew before going into labor that would have helped me prep for the entire labor & delivery experience.
Preparing for labor & delivery
A brief checklist to help prepare you for labor & delivery,
This blog post is specific for women giving birth at a hospital or at a birthing center. We will do a part two for our home birthing mommas.
Things to think about
We all need a hospital bag. From week 35 your bag should be packed and in the car, just in case you go into labor before your due date.
Don’t forget that you will need a car seat and the hospital will not allow you to leave unless it is fully functional and installed.
in need of a hospital bag checklist?
Your checklist
Here is a brief checklist to help you prepare for the expected and unexpected, labor and delivery.
Birth Planning
I planned for the birth experience I wanted but not the experience I didn't want. As you write your birth plan make sure you cover the "what to do if" parts of a birth plan. Like what to do if I need a C Section. Envision the worst case scenario and what would be the best case process for that worse case.
Nipple Balm
Some hospitals have a nipple balm that you can use but I loved having my own that I knew worked and that I could constantly apply (which the nurses usually hate). But my advice would be to make sure you carry your own and apply! Apply! Apply!
Non perishable Snacks
I was a bit of a clown and brought food that could be microwaved or warmed up. BIG NO. Bring light snacks and non perishable items because the truth is there's no telling how long you'll be at the hospital.
Knowledge of different types of delivery
Going hand in hand with the previous note of planning your birth. I realized after my delivery that the best way to plan for your birth is to know the different types of births. I refused to learn about foreceps and vaccuums because I didn't want that. Luckily I didn't have to have either of those instruments used but if I did, I would of been clueless about what they meant. Knowledge is power and empowering during this experience. Head to birth classes or do your research online to learn about the different ways to birth can go and different instruments that can be used.
Long Cord Charger
Thank me later.
Pediatrician
Figure out who you want as your Child's pediatrician before you go to the hospital. You won't be allowed to leave the hospital without your child having a pediatrician.
You can do this sis!
No matter where or how you deliver your baby, know that you got this! Hopefully this list can help inspire you and help provide you with a few notes that you may not have thought of and know above all else, you GOT THIS! One of the main affirmations I spoke over myself through out my labor was ” the pain is not stronger than me, because the pain is an extension of me”. You are stronger than you believe and in the moments you feel weak, picture your perfect bundle of joy in your arms.
You got this!
Everyone Needs Affirming While in Labor.
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