While you still have some time on your hands, make use of it to finalize a few things about D-Day.
Decisions to Make before D-Day
Where to give birth?
You do have options on where you can have the delivery. Most moms-to-be opt for the nearest hospital, but you can choose a lying-in clinic where you will be in the care of a licensed obstetrician, or if you live in a rural area, by an experienced midwife. You can also give birth at home, with the midwife by your side.
Who can be in the delivery room with you?
It really depends on the policies of the hospital/lying in clinic. Nowadays, most hospitals allow the husband to accompany the mom-to-be in the delivery room, so you can certainly ask your partner to be there for you. However other institutions are still strict about who enters the delivery room, so ask beforehand if your partner can stay with you during the birth.
Where will the baby stay immediately after birth?
If you choose a hospital or other medical institutions, you can either have your baby “room in” with you, or you can visit him in the nursery. Most doctors recommend that a newborn sleep with the mother, since this can make bonding and feeding easier. However please remember that if your baby requires constant attention of doctors or nurses, he may have to stay in the nursery.
Does the baby need a pediatrician on standby?
If you still haven’t chosen a pediatrician, don’t worry. For most hospitals, it’s standard for a pediatrician on hand for any birth. She takes the baby’s vital signs and first measurements, just so she can check for health or development issues. After her initial assessment, you can continue to see that particular doctor or to seek a different one. If you already have a pediatrician in mind, make sure she holds clinic in the hospital of your choice, so she can be there for your little one’s debut.
Will I be able to take care of the baby or should I get someone to help me?
Most women who opt for natural childbirth are usually back on their feet within a couple of days. While they still feel some pain and discomfort, rarely are they unable to care for their infants. If you give birth naturally and experience debilitating pain days later, consult your OB-Gyne.
Most women who have Caesarian delivery take longer to recover. Nevertheless while they may experience more pain (usually from the surgery), it’s also not enough to stop them from caring for their newborn.
That doesn't mean you won’t need a little help. After all, you will have undergone another massive biological change, because your baby now lives outside of you. You’ll need to adjust all over again, so don’t hesitate to ask your partner, relatives, or friends for assistance.
There are still a million and one things to do before D-Day. Make these important decisions about your baby’s birth, and you’ll have much needed peace of mind on your big day.
