Most mamas feel like they’re ready to bring the baby home after those few days at the hospital. You prepared yourself and your home and everything seems in order.
But I can tell you from experience that despite all your preparations you can and will feel very overwhelmed.
You learn so much about pregnancy and childbirth before the baby comes but a lot of what comes after just gets left out and you end up feeling stressed out and lonely.
I want to put everything into perspective in this post and help prepare you just a little bit more. I think it will do you good.
***Just a note: I really enjoyed writing this article for you. I think it’s extremely helpful in painting a real picture of what it’s like during that first week and what you should expect. It also allowed me to tell my story and reminisce about my three babies and I appreciate that. I hope you enjoy it and find it very helpful!
By the way, this post contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
What To Expect The First Week Home With Baby
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First Let’s Talk About What You’ll Experience Than We’ll Move On To What To Expect With Your Babe~
The Ride Home Can Be Rough
If you’re especially lucky your baby will sleep on the ride home from the hospital, but very often your new sweetie will cry most or the whole way home.
They cry because they’re nervous in the change of environment or just to relieve stress and that’s ok. Just soothe your baby with soft music and quiet voices.
A screaming baby can be stressful for new parents who are already tired but you’ll soon be home so just take a deep breath and try to relax.
All three of my sweet ones cried as hard as they possibly could on the 45-minute drive home and I was an absolute wreck by the time we finally made it. It sure seemed like the longest ride ever and all I wanted was for my babies not to be scared.
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Hopefully, your ride will be short and sweet and filled with zzzs.
****If you haven’t taken a childbirth prep test I HIGHLY recommend you do.Here’s an online course you can take in 3 hours or less at home.
You Will Miss The Hospital
Once you get home it seems so foreign. After all, everything has changed and you’re truly a different person. Even though you know your home well and you are comfortable there, things are just different, and being at the hospital with so much help was very useful.
You will start to worry about all the things. You will miss the staff. While you were there you could ask them questions and they helped with everything. It was a bit like a clinical bed and breakfast.
This happened with each of my babies births and I learned to appreciate that hospital stay just a little bit more each time.
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I have talked to other mothers and they say they often felt the same way, so enjoy those two or three nights, eat good food, and relax while you’re there.
Making sure you have help when you get home can ease the transition a bit so you’re not as overwhelmed. We’ll talk more about that later.
You’ll Be Really Uncomfortable
I’m going to level with you. The postpartum time is very painful and it sucks. Whether you’ve had a vaginal birth or a c-section you’ll be pretty uncomfortable most of the week.
Everything down there is swollen three times its normal size and many women end up with stitches.
You should be prepared for this. Most women don’t even think about it until the baby is born and they’re experiencing it. It’s like we forget all about the consequences birth will have on our own bodies.
But there are a few things you can buy that will make things much more comfortable for you. I have listed them below and if you want to read more about postpartum pain and what to expect you can read this article right here.
**Speaking of Your Postpartum body, if you’re worried about getting your body back and losing the baby weight I recommend the program The Postpartum Cure. It’s very popular and it’s helped many mamas lose weight, and flatten their tummy back out all while increasing their milk supply. It’s an excellent option if you want to get back to your shape quickly and safely. Here’s a link if you want to check it out.
You’ll Feel Sad And Strange
Gosh, I can’t even describe it. You just feel really weird that first week home. The second I came in the door I wanted to burst into tears yet I was elated in every way at the same time.
But I felt super sad too if that makes sense. I know it doesn’t really.
You just need to know that it hits you like a wrecking ball hard and fast and it’s not fun. You’ll be on the rollercoaster ride of your life that first week. Forget your mood swings during pregnancy.
While pregnant your hormones go up at a steady, slowish pace after the first trimester. But once you have the baby your body is flooded with the most intense changes. It’s like being hit by a tsunami that’s 59 feet tall. All I can say is just grab onto something and hold on.
But knowing that a wave is coming can help you feel a little bit more prepared. So at least there’s that.
You’ll Be Extremely Tired Yet Energetic
You’ll feel so tired from lack of sleep obviously but you will still have that crazy adrenaline rush you had when you went into labor and had your baby. You’ll also get a rush of those exciting hormones just because you have a newborn. You waited so long and now you get to spend time with her and that’s very exciting.
All three of my little ones wanted to stay at the breast for food and comfort almost constantly when they were first born and I obliged. I didn’t sleep for two weeks straight with all three, no joke. That’s how long that rush of hormones took to wear off.
I would sit up all night with my baby to my chest, skin to skin marveling at what I had created. I was tired and would catch a few zzzs here and there but for the most part, I was pretty energetic despite it all. I felt good! Except for maybe my mood swings here and there and those weird moments where my body was just shifting.
In my interviews with many other mamas, I have found this to be a common feeling so if it happens to you enjoy it! It makes those harder moments pale in comparison.
Breastfeeding May Be Really Difficult
Breastfeeding can be pretty rough during those first few weeks, but it is SO worth it!
But at first, you’re going to have really tender nipples, even if you have a really good latch technique.
If you don’t know how to latch your baby before you start trying the pain will be a lot worse. It’s important that you go into breastfeeding knowing what you’re doing so it will be easy for you and your babe.
Contrary to popular belief, babies don’t know how to instinctually latch onto the breast properly. They certainly know how to suckle but there is a very specific way to latch onto the breast to get the milk.
You don’t just stick the baby’s head straight to your nipple. Please don’t. This will cause terrible pain for you and frustration for your little one and this is why so many mamas give up on breastfeeding.
I highly recommend you take a breastfeeding course. There’s an online video course called Milkology that’s only $19. She has a pumping class too. This is the best way to be prepared for breastfeeding because you cannot count on the staff to teach you how. See The course here.
Some hospitals will indeed have a lactation consultant but many do not so be prepared.
You should equip yourself with some breastfeeding tools that will ease the transition from tender nipples to breastfeeding-conditioned nipples. They will also help tremendously.
It’s important to have someone there to help you because you will be sore all over. You’ll also want to fawn over your babe instead of cook dinner or doing laundry. So have your own mama or mother-in-law do the traditional week stay after the baby.
Your partner can help some but he or she likely won’t be able to do it all so outside help is good.
If nothing else you could hire someone from Care.com or something. It may not be as personal but it will certainly be helpful.
Your Partner Will Struggle Too
Your partner will feel almost as overwhelmed as you. He or she will be elated, nervous, stressed, and full of crazy emotions. Maybe not quite like the hormonal Tsunami, you’re feeling but it will still be a lot for your partner to handle.
Just having your little one there and realizing how everything has changed and how you’ve both changed too is enough to knock a strong person over. After all, you’re parents now and it’s a big deal!
So expect some help from him but cut him some slack. This is when that extra help will come in handy. He will want to fawn over the baby as well. He’ll be happy to help but he may not be able to handle it all.
Now Let’s Talk About What’s Going On With Baby~
Your Baby May Develop Jaundice
Infant jaundice is a common condition, particularly in babies born before 38 weeks gestation (preterm babies) and in some breastfed babies. Infant jaundice usually occurs because a baby’s liver isn’t mature enough to get rid of bilirubin in the bloodstream.
Severe jaundice (when levels of bilirubin are high, usually above 25 mg) that is not treated can cause deafness, cerebral palsy, or other forms of brain damage. In rare cases, jaundice may be a sign of another condition, such as an infection or a thyroid problem.
It does happen in full-term healthy babies though too. It happened in all three of mine. If it does happen they’ll have your baby lay on a special light bed or wrap them in a light blanket to reduce the bilirubin. They do this if the Jaundice shows up while you’re in the hospital and you may have to stay an extra day to help bring levels down if it stays elevated.
It’s important to keep an eye on it when you leave the hospital as well. It can show up a few days later sometimes. That’s why it’s important to keep those appointments with the Pediatrician.
Jaundice can be hard to see, especially in babies with dark skin. If you’re unsure, gently press the skin on your baby’s nose or forehead — if jaundice is present, the skin will appear yellow when you lift your finger.
Your Babe’s Brain Is Developing So Fast
Your baby may be small and sleeping a lot but they are already learning so much. She will soak up everything she hears, smells, sees, and touches.
Your baby will close his hands involuntarily in the grasp reflex and will startle at sudden loud noises. She’s also likely to have sudden jerky movements while asleep. This can be alarming because she’ll throw her little arms up above her head suddenly but it’s totally normal so don’t worry. All babies do this.
Your baby will learn to communicate with you quickly through body language. This will begin in the first week so pay attention to what your sweet babe does.
Your Babe Will Look Weird
This is a big one. When most people think of babies they think of soft, round, and pink with bright little eyes. But this isn’t the case right after birth. They look very mashed and their little faces are flattened out quite a bit and their features can be very swollen.
After all, they were in a tight little space in that amniotic sack so everything was pushed down.
Here’s what to expect:
Your baby’s head may be cone-shaped if you had a vaginal delivery and especially if you had a vacuum-assisted birth. My first little boy was vacuum-assisted and his head was long and he had little swollen lymph nodes on the back of his head for weeks. That scared me a bit but Doc said he was just fine.
Your baby’s head will go to a normal shape within the first month or so but take care that your child doesn’t get a flat head from laying too much. As a side note, you can read this article on how to avoid flat head, as your baby grows so they don’t end up needing a helmet.
Your baby may also have pretty scary-looking bruises on their head if he/she had vacuum or forceps used.. These will fade too but they do increase the risk of Jaundice so keep an eye on that.
Your baby’s facial features may be swollen and it can look a little freaky. But they will take on a lovely shape as your first few weeks progress.
The baby’s genitals will be swollen as well. This is from the hormones you passed on to your baby before birth and it’s nothing to worry about. It can be alarming but they’ll go down quickly.
The Umbilical cord will look pretty gross. It will gradually dry, become black and then fall off, usually within the first 10 days.
Try to keep the umbilical cord clean and dry. If the area around the umbilical cord looks red or is sticky, let your pediatrician know.
There Will Be So Much Poop
Babies poop so much in those first few days. They are getting all the meconium out.
Meconium is the earliest stool that babies have and it looks like black tar. It’s made up of materials ingested during the time the infant spends in the uterus: intestinal epithelial cells, lanugo, mucus, amniotic fluid, bile, and water. They will poop this tar-like substance for about half the week.
All my babies pooped about 15 times a day for the first 3 days just getting this stuff out. It was So. Much. Poop. I could barely enjoy my little one between constant diaper changes.
After your breastmilk comes in the poop will turn to a dijon mustard yellow and they go after every feeding. This is a good indication that your babe is getting enough to eat.
She May Get Really Rashy And Have Gooey Eyes
Your baby will very likely get rashy and his eyes will run. They can develop all sorts of rashes, which typically aren’t serious.
Common rashes include cradle cap, diaper rash, heat rash, eczema, milia, and dry skin. My first had all of them.
Your little one may get gooey eyes too. This is a sign of a clogged tear duct and it usually gets better on its own.
You’ll Be Seeing The Doctor A Couple Of Times
Your Pedestrian will have you come in every couple of days at first and then the appointments will stretch further and further apart until they land at every six months or so. These are important so they can check to make sure your baby is gaining weight and eating well.
They will also check to make sure your baby doesn’t get Jaundice and give injections that he needs so don’t put them off.
I know it’s tiresome to keep going when you’re tired and you just want to be home but you have to do it.
Things Will Get So Much Easier After That first Week. Your body will adjust and your babe will adjust to her new home. A routine will eventually set in and you’ll get more rest. It’s all so worth it. Hang in there and enjoy these special ( but sometimes ) difficult moments. It’s all part of the package 😉
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Babies often lay flat these days with all the things mamas use to assist them. Strollers, car seats and swings all play a role in the rise of the problem. Luckily the issue is usually very benign and can be fixed fairly easily.
Nearly 50% of babies are affected at least some with plagiocephaly.
**Want Freebies For You And Your Baby? Get $330 Worth Of Gear! I have partnered with many companies to give you the best baby freebies online including Nursing Pillow, Pregnancy Pillows, Nursing Covers, Baby Leggings, Baby Clothes and so much more. You can find out how to get your freebies in this post right here.
What Is plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly (sometimes called deformational plagiocephaly or positional plagiocephaly) is a very common, very treatable disorder. It causes a baby’s head to have a flattened appearance. Plagiocephaly develops when an infant’s soft skull becomes flattened in one area, due to repeated pressure on one part of the head.
Below are Flat Head Baby Pictures so you can see the difference between a normal shaped head and a flat head.
How Is It Treated?
TREATMENT OF PLAGIOCEPHALY. The options for treatment of plagiocephaly are surgical and nonsurgical. Surgical intervention is required only for confirmed craniosynostosis. Nonsurgical treatment can involve positioning and physiotherapy, or the use of a molding device (helmet therapy).
Let’s hope your baby doesn’t end up needing surgical intervention. Or a helmet for that matter.
You can fix your baby’s flat head without the dreaded helmet. Many parents do and that’s what we’ll talk about to today.
***A quick disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional. I just offer advice on this topic. Always consult your Doc on what is best for you and your baby in your situation.
By the way, this post contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
How To Fix A Flat Head In A Baby Without A Helmet
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Tummy Time
The first thing you need to do to begin correcting your baby’s flat head is to make tummy time all the time. When your baby is awake and playing they can be on there tummy strengthening their neck muscles and back.
This will allow for good movement at night when they are laying down. Good movement and strong muscles mean that your baby can reposition easily and this helps prevent flat head.
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It also gives the head a break from lying against something constantly so that it can begin the reshaping process.
Here’s an amazing water tummy time mat that is so cool it will keep your baby happy and busy for hours. You can find it on Amazon for really cheap! See it below.
And Get A Bumbo Seat
Getting a Bumbo seat is another great way to have your baby up and off her head. It will allow your baby to gain strength while you get stuff done.
Many parents put their child in a swing or bouncer that the baby lays back in and this is one of the reasons there is a rise in positional plagiocephaly.
Using something like a Bumbo seat is a much better option. You can buy the one pictured below on Amazon for a fair price. Just remember, never leave your baby unattended in a Bumbo seat because it could be dangerous.
A Special Pillow
There are special pillows made to prevent this problem from occurring and they can also help if the issue has already developed.
These pillows provide the ultimate ergonomic neck and head support. They create a cocoon-like holding effect that soothes and reassures the baby while helping to promote healthy skull development and proper head shape.
They are a must for every new baby. You can find a really good one right here.
Reposition there head From Side To Side As They Sleep
I know you’re tired but If you don’t have a pillow it would be beneficial to get up every few hours and turn your baby’s head. Perhaps you can do it after a feeding when they fall asleep.
Even if they have a pillow it is still a good idea to angle their head slightly to the left or right alternating while they’re on the pillow. This will help keep the neck, shoulder muscles, and skull healthy.
Get A Dock A Tot
A Dock A Tot is an excellent tool to have in general. But for the baby that’s developing a flat head, it’s very helpful because the head is inclined and cushioned. This takes some of the pressure of the skull. It’s good to use for naps.
It’s also beneficial if your baby gets sick because it elevates the head nicely. There’s nothing worse than a baby with a stuffy nose that can’t breathe at all at night! A Dock A Tot will help tremendously.
You can get a really nice one right here.
Baby Wear As Much As Possible
Babywearing is not only good for your baby but it’s also good for their skull development. Babywearing is also good for developing neck muscles if you leave the head out ( only do this if your baby is old enough to support their head ).
But If you need a helmet it’s ok!
Sometimes your baby just needs a helmet. It’s good to try and correct it yourself but if the Good Doc really believes it’s necessary then just go for it and turn it into an accessory like below 🙂
I wish you and your babe all the luck in the world.
If you enjoyed this post or thought it was helpful, I would love it if you would share it with your friends.
You can share with the Pinterest images below or the buttons below or to the left. Thanks!
There’s also a button at the very bottom that will allow you to download this post as a pdf if you want to keep it. Just click on the purple button below.
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If you’ve never had a baby before you may be wondering what to expect right after you give birth. Things can move pretty quickly and it’s a very exciting time!
Usually, they follow a pretty specific routine but it can vary somewhat from hospital to hospital.
Let’s talk about it so you’ll be prepared.
Make sure you read the full post because there’s some very important info at the end you don’t want to forget about.
***Have You taken a prenatal birth course yet?Here’s an online course that is accredited and takes about 3 hours to go through so you don’t have to leave home.
By the way, this post contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
The First 24 Hours | What To Expect Right After Delivery Of Your Baby
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What Happens With Baby First
Once your baby is born he’ll be given to you. Skin on Skin contact is very important so your little one should be placed in your arms or on your belly right away.
This is a great time for you and baby to get to know each other and make your first attempts at breastfeeding.
After a while, they will take the baby and clean him, put ointment on his eyes, and give him Vitamin K drops.
The ointment prevents eye infections and Vitamin K is important because it helps his blood clot.
After these steps are taken they will put a hospital band on your babe and then take ink footprints of him.
**Want Freebies For You And Your Baby? Get $330 Worth Of Gear! I have partnered with many companies to give you the best baby freebies online including Nursing Pillow, Pregnancy Pillows, Nursing Covers, Baby Leggings, Baby Clothes and so much more. You can find out how to get your freebies in this post right here.
What Happens With You First
While you’re holding your sweet babe the nurses will begin to massage your stomach to help you birth the Placenta. This is not fun and for me, it was pretty painful.
It feels like a dull ache and more labor pains but the discomfort is numbed by the fact that you are finally holding onto your baby.
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Once the placenta is out they will go ahead and cut the umbilical cord if they haven’t already. In my case, they waited till I had birthed it but it all depends.
Your doctor or midwife will begin giving you stitches if your perineum has a tear after the placenta has been birthed. They will also monitor your blood pressure and your blood loss to make sure you’re ok and that everything is going according to plan.
You and your baby will stay in the birthing room for two to three hours post-birth and you’ll be able to eat and clean yourself up some. Then they’ll move you to the postnatal ward for a one to two-night stay. If you had a C-section you will stay up to four nights.
They want you to stay so they can monitor your recovery and watch the baby as well to make sure He/she’s healthy and thriving.
If you have very specific expectations during this time you should create a birthing plan. This will let everyone know what you want and how you want the birthing experience to go for you and your baby.
You can get a nice free birthing plan template from Earth Mama Organics right here.
So What Happens Next?
You make it to your recovery room and you’re wondering how things will go from here.
Well, first of all, you’ll get settled in and they’ll take the IV out of your arm if they haven’t already. They usually leave it in until now just in case there is an emergency or they feel the need to administer some medication to you.
Speaking of medication, you’ll feel pretty beat up during this time and you may be offered pain medication. If you feel like you need them then go ahead and take them. You want to be comfortable during the recovery process so you can give your full attention to your new baby and the meds may help.
They’ll want you to use the bathroom pretty quickly so they can make sure everything is functioning properly. If you had an epidural they’ll wheel you in the bathroom to pee on this stand-up wheelchair device. Or perhaps a regular wheelchair depending on where you go to have your baby.
They often use the stand-up device because they want you to use your legs as quickly as possible after the epidural. It promotes recovery and healing and it lets them know you’re alright.
It’s not fun to use the bathroom the first time. You’re likely numb and you can barely do it or you’re not and it burns like a mother. These are not fun moments but you have to get the job done.
As far as your uterus goes, you’ll be having cramps that can be as bad as labor pains. This is caused by your uterus shrinking up and the pain is worse when you breastfeed.
That’s because breastfeeding causes the uterus to contract more, and that’s a good thing. It just doesn’t feel so great.
If you’re torn down there it will likely swell up and cause a good bit of discomfort. Even if you don’t tear you will be really swollen.
They’ll offer you these mesh underwear and pads along with ice packs to sit on to help keep you as clean and comfortable as possible. You will bleed heavily for the first 24 hours with some big clots.
Then after that, it will slow down some but you will bleed for about six weeks total.
Your tummy will still be fairly big and it will take some time to go down. Maybe even a couple of months, it just depends on your body and how many babies you’ve already had.
These will help everything shrink back into place nicely.
For added cleanliness, you can use this product right here to help you get through tough times as well. This product is good for when you’re on your period too and you need to feel fresher.
Read this article to learn how to be more comfortable during the worst of your postpartum period.
What’s Next For Baby
Your baby will stay with you so you can bond and respond easily to their needs. You will begin your breastfeeding journey ( if you intend to do so ) at the hospital and you will practice a lot. When the baby isn’t nursing he will likely be sleeping.
Babies are very tired after birth, he will probably sleep most of those first few days, so get rest when you can.
While you are getting to know baby, make sure you are skin to skin often. This releases hormones like oxytocin that are good for you both. It helps your baby thrive better too.
Your baby should be able to recognize that you’re his or her mother by the sound of your voice and heartbeat. It’s a familiar sound and it brings great comfort to your babe.
When he is awake he will hear you and likely try to turn his sweet little head towards you. When he nurses your colostrum will taste familiar like the amniotic fluid in the womb and this will also be comforting.
The staff will take your baby’s blood at some point. They usually squeeze it from the heel of the foot. Most of the time the baby isn’t bothered by this. A couple of my babes slept through it.
Other times baby may not like being squeezed at all. He may cry or fuss. Just be there to comfort him through it so he knows you are there when he needs you.
While you are in the hospital your chosen Pediatrician will come in and do an overall health exam of your baby. This will get them started with the doc and she will see him several times over the next upcoming months. You’ll have doc appointments as much as twice weekly for the first few weeks.
If you want you can have photos done in the hospital. Most hospitals offer this so that you have photos of your newborn right after birth. Be sure to take something nice for your baby to wear if you plan on doing this.
What You Need To Do Next
You’ll need to set up your baby’s insurance set up. You can go ahead and do this while you’re in the hospital or you can wait till you get home. Either way, it’s a crucial next step in setting up the care of your baby, so take care of it as soon as possible. Perhaps your partner can do this so you can attend to more interesting things.
You’ll need to fill out a birth certificate at some point while at the facility. They give you that and some other paperwork to fill out. They’ll also likely give you pamphlets on how to cope during postpartum depression or during periods of purple crying.
You may also receive information on breastfeeding resources as well.
When you’re ready to leave make sure to double-check the car seat. Make sure it’s tight and properly installed for the baby’s safety.
Once you get home you may feel a bit overwhelmed. I know I did each time I brought one of my babies home.
Hormones really start to set in too. It can feel somewhat scary. But hang in there.
Make sure you have a really good support system and someone there that can help at least the first week or so. You’ll be SO grateful for them. You’ll see…
Good luck mama! I hope this was helpful.
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You’ve gotten through most of your labor and things have really kicked up a notch. The intensity is peaking and you may want an epidural at this time. If you are wanting to give birth naturally then these will be your weakest moments.
But I know you can do it, as millions of women before you have. You want to truly experience what your body was meant to do without intervention, but to get through this difficult time you must know how to cope with the transition stage.
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What Is Labor Transition?
Labor Transition is the late phase when your cervix will dilate from 7 centimeters to 10 centimeters and you’ll be fully effaced. Your contractions will be a few minutes apart and last as long as a minute and a half.
The intensity of your transactions are very strong at this stage and the experience is pretty unbearable. But your body was built for this and you can get through it.
You may feel self-doubt and feelings of being out of control. You may also shake or vibrate as your body prepares to begin pushing.
How Long Does Labor Transition Last?
Transition can last anywhere from about a half hour to four hours long. Hopefully, for you, it will be short.
Now let’s go over some tips to help you get through this most difficult stage so you can have your baby and be proud of what you’ve accomplished! You can do it!
***Have You taken a prenatal birth course yet? Don’t have time? Here’s the best Premium online birthing course and the first part of it’s totally free! You will learn absolutely everything you need to know and it will help tremendously so make sure you sign up. A Class is a must and I think the online ones are the best. Here’s a free Birth Planner Too!
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How To Get Through Labor Transition Without Crying
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Breathing
The first thing you want to do obviously is to breathe very deeply in an organized way. There are several techniques that you can try and you can learn them in a birthing course.
If you haven’t taken a course yet you can take one online. Here’s one you can sign up for and the first part of it is free so that should get you started.
Get In The Tub
Getting in the water will be a tremendous comfort for you during transition. It will help ease your pain and relax your body so that you can open up completely to allow baby to move through you.
If you want to have a natural birth and this sounds good to you make sure you ask for a room with a tube so you’ll have one at your disposal. Or better yet, put it in your birthing plan.
Don’t have a birthing plan yet? Get a free printout right here and create yours so that you and the staff are on the same page.
**Want Freebies For You And Your Baby? Get $330 Worth Of Gear! I have partnered with many companies to give you the best baby freebies online including Nursing Pillow, Pregnancy Pillows, Nursing Covers, Baby Leggings, Baby Clothes and so much more. You can find out how to get your freebies in this post right here.
Moan If You Need To
This post is called How to get through labor transition without crying. But that doesn’t mean you cannot moan ( or go ahead and cry a little if ya really want to ).
Moaning during labor helps ease the pain so just let go. Don’t be ashamed to make noise if you need to, the staff has heard it plenty before. Just make the noise your body wants to make, follow your instincts.
Here’s a good post over at Giving Birth with Confidence that talks more about making sounds during your labor process. You should read it!
Changing positions will help you manage your pain as well. You can sit on the edge of the bed, sit on a ball, squat, get in the tub or down on all fours. These positions will help gravity do its work and speed up labor transition.
The movement will ease the pain during those crucial moments when you feel like you can’t take it anymore. It’s a bit of a distraction.
Try To Stay Grounded
Realizing or being reminded that you are in transition will help you cope. You will be able to focus on the fact that it’s almost over and your baby will soon be here.
It creates a feeling of acceptance and comfort despite the pain. Focusing on the present moment or the baby will help you cope with what you’re experiencing.
Swaying And Rocking
Swaying and Rocking will help your body continue to gradually open up more so that baby can come. It’s comforting as well and it gives you something to do during your most painful moments. It really is very helpful!
Encouragement
This is a great time for your partner to lay on the encouragement. They can help remind you of your goals and how you wanted things to go. They can help you stay strong if you definitely don’t want an epidural too.
Just reminding you that you can absolutely do this without intervention will help you stay stronger.
Stay Hydrated
Keeping up your hydration will help you maintain your strength. It will make you feel less tired too and you certainly will need the fluids.
So stay on top of the water intake to make things go as smoothly as possible.
What Your Partner Can Do To Help
Your partner may feel very overwhelmed and transition is so intense that it may scare them a bit. You need to talk to them beforehand and let them know that you need them to stay focused on you instead of their own fears.
They can do a number of things to help ease you through to make sure they know how they can help.
They need to stay proactive by doing some of the things listed below:
Cold Compresses
Massage Techniques
Emotional Encouragement
Cue Phrases
Remind you that you’re almost done
Keep you Focused on the Present
Keep your Environment Calm and Quiet
Whisper Affirmations
This will also make them feel part of the process and it will make them proud.
Labor Transition is pretty tough work but women have done it for hundreds of years naturally and so can you ( if you choose to ). I hope the list above can help you in your most difficult moments.
I wish you all the luck in the world 😉
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Your baby will be here soon and you feel prepared for the most part. But there may be some important things that you are forgetting.
I have created a checklist of those last minute things that you’ll need to do below that you can print out. These are important because if you don’t do them now you’ll find yourself overwhelmed after birth, especially when you get home, so be sure to read the whole post so you’ll be fully prepared.
Here we go!
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10 Things To Do Before Baby Arrives Checklist And Resource Guide
To Download this checklist, go to the very bottom of the page when you’re done reading it and click the Purple button. It will download a pdf for you that you can use for reference.
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✅ Install The Car Seat
Installing a car seat in your vehicle is one of the most important things to do to prepare for baby that you may be forgetting. The hospital won’t even let you leave without one so get in there and install it.
Make sure you put it in very tightly. Here’s a video that will help you get it in right.
✅ Freezer Meal Prep
Before your baby comes it’s a good idea to have two full weeks of frozen meals prepared. You will be so busy and even if there’s someone there to help you, you’ll want to do this.
You’ll need there help with other things instead of having them in the kitchen all the time.
Here’s a list of 25 frozen meals you can create so you don’t have to worry about what everyone’s going to eat later on. You’ll be so grateful you did this once your baby arrives.
✅ Catch Up On Laundry
This is another chore you won’t want to think about. Make sure everything’s done so you can attend to the more important things like cooing and your newborn.
✅ Wash All Your Baby’s Clothing And Sheets
While you’re doing all the laundry you’ll want to wash all your baby’s things in Dreft. Dreft is a hypoallergenic detergent that contains no dyes that can irritate your baby’s skin. It is the recommended detergent for babies and it works great.
Wash sheets, blankets, clothing, and anything else that will come in contact with your baby’s skin.
✅ Prepare For Labor
Preparing for labor is one of the single most important things you can do to get ready for baby. It’s a big event and there are lots to know!
I highly recommend you take an online birthing course like this one right here. They’re cheap and easy and you can do it right from your home at your own pace.
This one was created by a medical professional and it teaches your EVERYTHING you need to know. The first part of it is totally free so that can help get you started. You can sign up for free right here.
✅ Prepare A Breastfeeding Station
You’ll need to prepare a quiet place for your breastfeeding station. A place that has supplies you’ll need in arms reach. Somewhere that you can relax too.
Especially if there are other kids in the house. Here’s an article on setting up a great breastfeeding station for you and your babe.
The list below are the things you’ll need at or near your breastfeeding station:
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✅ Prepare For Breastfeeding
So you have prepared a breastfeeding station. But are you truly prepared to breastfeed?
You may think the hospital staff will teach you but in many places, this just isn’t the case.
You are responsible for learning how to breastfeed your baby and the easiest way is to take this cheap online course right here. It’s called Milkology and it’s only $19. It takes about three hours to take and it’s all in the video so you can really learn how to latch your baby on right the first time.
This will help to avoid tons of pain and frustration. Knowing how to latch will also help bring in a strong milk supply so it’s vital you go in knowing just what to do.
She also has another $19 course that teaches you how to pump when you go back to work without losing your milk supply. It’s an excellent resource for breastfeeding moms.
This is also something many women seem to forget. They get wrapped up in having their baby and they don’t think of the bodily destruction in the aftermath.
Postpartum is a painful time and the recovery can be rough. You need to fully prepare yourself for this with an arsenal of tools that will allow you to be pain-free so you can concentrate on what matters most, your new bundle of joy. Read more about the postpartum experience here.
There are a few things you can get and they’re cheap and easy to find on Amazon.
Here’s a basic list of what you’ll need to help you manage the pain and discomfort:
The next step in your final preparations for baby is to have your hospital bag packed. You need some very specific things plus some of the stuff that was mentioned above.
✅ Here’s the list:
✅ The basics:
Your ID, Insurance Card, and paperwork.
✅ For you:
Bring your phone, charger, camera, and batteries. Bring something to read, a tablet to watch movies on. Bring a newborn book to read and maybe a novel. Music too.
Bring your pillow from home, a Maternity robe and gown or two, slippers and socks.
Plus bring your postpartum supplies mentioned in that section. You’ll need them at the hospital as well as at home.
✅ For Baby:
Bring outfits, receiving blankets, socks, and installed car seat, and a quilt or wrap around if it’s colder.
✅ For Nursing:
Bring nursing bras, nursing pillows, nipple pads, and nipple ointment and anything else you think you’ll need that was mentioned on the breastfeeding station list above.
✅ Extras:
Bring Toiletries, a soft towel from home, snacks, and a photo of siblings so they know you’re thinking about them during this transitional time.
Here’s a great post on what to expect when you go to the hospital from check-in to check out.
✅ Take Maternity Photos
If you’ve been thinking of taking maternity photos the time in now. Maternity photos are a very special keepsake that every mama should have.
I’ve had three babies and I had none taken and I’m very regretful. I just didn’t know it was a thing to have them done, but what a brilliant idea. I really wish I had thought about it when I was pregnant.
So don’t miss out on getting those special photos before your babe comes. You’ll be glad you did.
So there it is. This list covers everything you need to do to prepare for baby and it also covers baby things you need to buy before birth. If you want to print this checklist just go to the very bottom of this post and push the purple button. You will receive this post as a PDF download that you can print and keep.
I hope this helps and good luck mama!
If you enjoyed this post or thought it was helpful, I would love it if you would share it with your friends.
You can share with the Pinterest images below or the buttons below or to the left. Thanks!
There’s also a button at the very bottom that will allow you to download this post as a pdf if you want to keep it. Just click on the purple button below.
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By the time you hit about 6 or 7 months, you really begin to think about childbirth. It can seem pretty overwhelming and if you’re scared, don’t be. You can ease your fears by learning more about childbirth.
You are probably here now because you want to find out as much as possible to make things easier on yourself and baby. It’s good to go into this thing well prepared and that’s what I want to help you with today. With three births under my belt, I’ve been there, done that.
In this article, you’ll get the best labor advice ever to help you get ready for your big moment. So let’s get started.
***Have You taken a prenatal birth course yet?Here’s the best Premium online birthing course online that you can take in 3 hours or less at your own convenience. It is accredited and highly recommended with 5-star reviews.
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The Best Labor Advice You’ll Ever Get For Labor And Postpartum
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Take A Good Online Birthing Course
Taking a birthing Course is the absolute best way to prepare for what’s ahead. I cannot stress it enough.
If you want to know what to expect when you’re at the hospital then this is your vital first step. You may not use everything you learn in the heat of the moment but it will give you an excellent idea of how things will go. This will help diminish any fear you have greatly.
Here’s a really good one online and you can take the first part of it completely free. That will get you started at least. It has rave reviews and it was created by a birthing professional. See it here.
Rethink Your Birthing Position
You may think that laying on your back is the best birthing position but it’s really not. But If you get an epidural you may but stuck in this position, unfortunately. That’s one of the downfalls of epidurals.
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If you can it’s better to sit upright while having contractions so gravity can help your baby come down.
When you’re able to move you can also walk, sit, squat, or lean on whatever is available. You can rock with the contractions or even get down on hands and knees.
All of these positions will help you during labor and you will likely see your baby sooner.
**Want Freebies For You And Your Baby? Get $330 Worth Of Gear! I have partnered with many companies to give you the best baby freebies online including Nursing Pillow, Pregnancy Pillows, Nursing Covers, Baby Leggings, Baby Clothes and so much more. You can find out how to get your freebies in this post right here.
Pooping Is Ok
Poop is going to happen no matter what. It’s extremely common.
While you may feel embarrassed about pooping during labor, it’s totally natural because the muscles used during labor are the same as used during defecation.
The staff has seen it a thousand times and it doesn’t phase them one bit so don’t even give it a second thought.
A birthing plan is a great idea. But things rarely go exactly as planned so keep that in mind.
Most of the time staff will try to work with you but if things don’t work out the way you wanted just remember that your baby is the most important thing.
One way to help you get through those painful contractions is to have something to focus on. Find your focal point and when a contraction begins to rise, think of nothing else.
Simply focus all attention on it until it begins to fall. This is a good way to help manage the pain and it’s recommended in many birthing classes like this one right here.
Don’t Listen to All Those Stories
Everyone you meet will want to tell you about when they had their babies. People love sharing these stories but sometimes they’re scary. Don’t be scared.
Every birthing experience is different so you don’t need to assume just because your sister in law had a terrible time that you will too.
Ask people to please share their stories after your baby is born and then you’ll have one to share too.
Eat Before You Go To The Hospital
Once you get to the hospital in heavy labor they won’t let you eat. If you have a long labor you can become famished and it can get pretty hard.
Make sure you eat a huge, lovely meal of anything you want before you go. You’ll need the extra calories.
Eat A Huge Meal After Birth
You’ve just had the workout of your life so order a steak, a Milkshake, and a piece of cake. You will need the calories to heal and make breastmilk, and food tastes so amazingly good after birth. It’s insane.
Your body is famished and full of hormones and it knows it’s got a lot of work ahead so your appetite will be strong and it will all be oh so good. Don’t even worry about calories right now. Just dive right in and get to healing.
Make Friends With The Nurses
The nurses will be your new best friends through this experience and you’ll need them plenty. Be sure to make nice with them so that things go smoothly.
Being demanding or rude is not the way to go if things are not working out the way you hoped. This will just make things worse for you, trust me.
Don’t Rush On The Epidural
Wait to get your epidural until you’re at least 5 centimeters. Occasionally, an Epidural can slow down or even stop labor so it’s important to be well dilated and have some good progress under your belt before getting that sweet pain relief.
Listen To Music
The Bump Says ” When you’re listening to music during labor in a place that isn’t home, familiar songs can make you feel more relaxed and help get the oxytocin (a hormone that makes your uterus contract) flowing better.”
Sounds good to me.
Use Affirmations
Using Birthing affirmations is a good way to boost your confidence and it helps remind you that birthing is natural and has been done successfully for generations.
It has a nice calming effect on you and helps boost your mood. Below is excellent hypnotherapy for childbirth video that you may find helpful. Bookmark this page on your phone or tablet and play it while having your baby. I would absolutely love it if you did that!
Moaning Is Ok
Moaning during childbirth will help you relieve inner tension and pain. So if you feel the need to do it then go for it.
Many women are vocal during childbirth so it won’t surprise or upset anyone. Don’t hold back. You may curse some too. They are used to it. I know I did.
Be Prepared For The Pain Afterward
Many times women concentrate on themselves during pregnancy and then the baby after birth.
They are often unprepared for the pain they experience after birth. It’s really intense but it can be managed really well if you plan for it and have the proper tools at your disposal.
Don’t count on the hospital to have everything you need. Some do and some don’t so you’ll need to bring your own things in your hospital bag. If they have some of the things you need you can keep them and have extra because you’ll need it.
Here’s a post on how to prepare for the pain in the postpartum period. Here’s another if you want to have a look.
If you plan to breastfeed you should fully prepare yourself by taking a course where you can see someone latching a baby on. You cannot count on the staff to teach you what you need to know.
Some will have a lactation consultant on staff and some will have no resources whatsoever to help you with breastfeeding your baby. Sad but true.
If you are interested in taking a course online, here’s one for only $19. It’s called Milkology and it’s got a huge fanbase of happily breastfeeding moms. It’s the best breastfeeding online course there is. See it here.
I hope that you feel a little more prepared for labor now. It’s an exciting time but there’s a lot to know and the more you know the easier it will be. Don’t forget to take your birthing course. Here’s part of one that’s completely free. It will get you started.
Good luck and I wish you all the best!
If you enjoyed this post or thought it was helpful, I would love it if you would share it with your friends.
You can share with the Pinterest images below or the buttons below or to the left. Thanks!
There’s also a button at the very bottom that will allow you to download this post as a pdf if you want to keep it. Just click on the purple button below.
Pin it On Pinterest With The Special Images Below!
Hey, I’m Toni and I’m the mama of 3 Little Birds. I love Writing about all Things Mama. Learn more about me here. Grab a Tea or Coffee and come see what you find.
