POPSUGAR

10 Things to Know Before Giving Birth

May 18 2017 - 10:40am

In the final days of pregnancy, expectant moms have a lot on their minds. But as the nesting instinct [1] sets in, take advantage of the downtime to read up on what lies ahead. Before heading to the hospital, check out our guide of things every mom-to-be should know.

Know Your Birthing Options

From water birth [3] (Gisele Bundchen's method) to hypnobirthing, there is a means [4] to suit every woman's style.

Understand Pain Management Options

Whether a mama-to-be plans on numbing the birthing experience or the final moments, know your labor and delivery drug options [5].

Selecting Baby's Name

Our readers chose Luca [6] and Vivian [7] as their favorite new celebrity baby names [8] last year, but mama probably has a few other monikers on her list. Consider these things [9] before selecting your lil one's name.

Prepare For Your Postpartum Body

You probably won't walk out of the hospital wearing your pre-baby jeans. Be prepared for the changes that will occur [11] so you won't be surprised [12] by things like your hair falling out.

How to Pack Your Hospital Bag

Sure you need some pajamas and toiletries [13]. But if you're planning to nurse, there are additional items you should pack [14]. Before stuffing your suitcase, check out our hospital bag guides [15].

How to Prepare For a C-Section

One-third of all US babies are delivered via C-section [17] these days. Even if your surgical birth isn't scheduled [18], a mama-to-be should know what a c-section entails. If you think a cesarean birth is in your future, know what to pack in your bag [19], what to do to ease your recovery [20], some postpartum surprises [21] that await you, and how to handle comments [22] people make about the method.

If You Are Going to Breastfeed

You'll hear it in your birthing class, throughout the hospital, and from family and friends. Breast is best, but not always as natural as it looks. Check out our mom-to-mom guide [24] to nursing your tot, and don't miss our top tips and hacks [25].

Have Your Will in Place

Though 36 percent of our readers [27] don't have a will prepared, doing so can alleviate a lot of anguish should the unthinkable happen. Discuss your lil ones' future guardianship [28] and put it all on paper.

Your Maternity Leave Policy

The US may have some of the least mom-friendly maternity leave [29] laws, but they do exist. Seventy-seven percent of our readers [30] took their full leave. Familiarize yourself with your company's policy.

The Home Birth Option

All births don't take place in a hospital or birthing center. Learn about the benefits (and risks) of welcoming your little one at home [31].


Source URL
https://www.popsugar.com/family/Things-Know-Before-Giving-Birth-13248730