There is something incredibly special about knowing you are expecting your baby in the new year. Although they can’t join in the festivities this year, January and the months ahead look so much brighter when you know they’ll be with you soon! To help you prepare, we’ve gathered some of our best tips for you to get ready for your little one.
Tip 1: Plan Ahead and Create a Birth Plan
Being prepared ahead of giving birth can help you feel more at ease and less overwhelmed with what’s to come. So prioritize working on your birth plan and put in place arrangements that you feel are realistic and that you feel will offer you the best possible birthing experience for you. As part of your birth plan it is important to share your preferences for your ideal birth, but to also offer your preferences should your first choice not be possible. Your birth plan may also cover your feelings on pain relief and medical intervention. Whilst there will be friends and family members sharing their birth stories new and old, ideally you should focus on what is best for you as you need to feel as comfortable as possible - after all, you’re the one who’s going to give birth!
Tip 2: Try to Maintain a Healthy Diet Despite the Cravings
Dealing with pregnancy cravings can be tough but try your best to maintain a healthy and balanced diet throughout your pregnancy. If you can do this you’ll be surprised at how much healthier and more energetic you’ll feel. This will also help alleviate any lethargic and fatigue feelings towards the end of your pregnancy. Consuming plenty of folate-rich foods is recommended right up until you have your baby as it is excellent for their development.
Tip 3: Take the Time to Learn But Don’t Overburden Yourself with Information
When you become a mother for the first time, you’ll be eager to drink in as much information as you possibly can about safely caring for your newborn baby and raising him or her in a healthy way. Nevertheless, it’s important not to fall into the trap overburdening yourself with too much information and putting yourself under any unnecessary pressure. You can take advice from friends and family members in, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to take it onboard! Over time, you’ll learn what works best for you and your baby and this will begin to shape your parenting style. Of course, if you are unsure on some aspects of raising your baby you can always seek advice from your family doctor.
Tip 4: Don’t be So Harsh on Yourself
It’s important to try not to be too harsh on yourself when you’re dealing with the ups and downs and the many challenges of pregnancy. Throughout pregnancy and after giving birth your hormones will be doing somersaults bringing up new and unchartered emotions you may not have experienced before. It’s okay to be worried or to have a bad day. Although these feelings may be new and unique to you, they are likely the same worries of many new moms before you. If there are particular things that you’re concerned about or that are causing you uncertainty, don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor and seek their advice. In the newborn stages, although you may be considered the primary caregiver to your baby - make sure that your partner is aware of any difficult emotional feelings you are having so they can support you in the best way possible. If you have a birthing partner who is a friend or family member, make sure to confide in them also if you feel that you can.
Tip 5: Time to winddown
As a mom-to-be expecting in the new year, it can be easy to get caught up in the chaos of the festive period and feel you have to do as much as you typically would if you weren’t pregnant. If you already have a child, you may also feel a stronger expectation to continue your usual routines. However, it’s vital that you make those important people around you in your life know if you are struggling or need to take a few tasks off your typical to-do list. A relaxed expectant mother, who is free from stress or strain can help your birth journey not seem so daunting and allow you to prepare mentally for the remainder of your pregnancy. In short, learning to say ‘no’ will be your greatest weapon when it comes to winding down in preparation for your new baby.
For more tips on navigating life as mother to a newborn, read our helpful advice pieces below;
