Checklist for Mothers-to-Be
When preparing for a new baby, a checklist helps you keep your baby preparations organized and on track so your home is ready for your new addition. The specifics of your preparation activities may vary slightly, but the general tasks remain true for all expectant mothers and their partners.
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Prenatal Care and Birth Plan
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Early in the pregnancy a mom-to-be needs to think about her birth plan and preferences. In addition to the traditional hospital birth, options include birthing centers and home births. For women preferring a medication-free birth, often a midwife or doula is chosen to support that choice. If you decide to use a obstetrician, interview her to ensure she supports the choice of avoiding pain medication. Once you decide on a birthing location and prenatal care provider, decide on the other birth details -- things like who will be present, pain relief methods, prenatal classes, the plan for getting to the birthing facility and packing your bag.
Baby Nursery
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Finishing the nursery before you go into labor helps you feel more prepared for your baby's arrival. Set up the nursery around month six or seven in case you go into labor early. If you paint the baby nursery, choose a no-VOC paint. This type of paint reduces the harmful chemicals that are found in regular paint, making it a safer environment for you and your baby.
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Baby Gear
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Deciding on the baby gear to buy is another consideration for expectant mothers. Friends and family often throw a baby shower or give the mom-to-be gifts from the baby registry if one is established. Once you go through the gifts you receive, make a list of the gear you still need. Items that make the list include a car seat, crib, crib sheets, changing table, rocking chair, baby swing, bouncer seat, blankets, baby bath tub, diaper pail, baby monitor and clothing for your new baby. Items like baby swings, bouncer seats and baby bath tubs aren't necessities, but they are nice to have if the budget allows.
Baby Care Plan
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A plan for baby care once you bring your newest family member home helps you prepare. Make a plan for how you want to feed your baby. Sleeping arrangements are another major decision to make. One option is to use a bassinet in your bedroom for the first few weeks before moving your baby into her own room. Other parents prefer to put the baby straight in the crib. Create a policy on visitors in the first weeks. For example, you might limit it only to your parents and sibling to give yourself time to settle in. If you plan to return to work, look for day care early in the pregnancy. In some areas, day care centers have waiting lists. You also need to choose a pediatrician for your baby since you will have a check up within the first few weeks of your baby's birth.
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References
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