7.
Preparation for delivery
As you approach the final stages of pregnancy, preparation is key to a smooth and empowering
experience. This involves emotional, physical and logistical readiness. By focusing on these
areas, you will be better equipped to handle the challenges and joys of childbirth.
7.1 Emotional preparation
1) Childbirth Education Classes: Attend classes to learn about labor, delivery and post
partum care. This is so that you don’t get overwhelmed by so many emotions at the
thought of labor pains and others
2) Building a support network: Identify a birth partner or a support person to provide you
with emotional support. This person will be the one to comfort and encourage you
during labor.
3) Managing anxiety and fear: Always try to practice some relaxation techniques like deep
breathing, meditation or yoga to manage stress. Deep breathing will help slow down
your heart rate and deal with nervousness and anxiousness.
4) Positive birth affirmations: It is important to repeat affirmations in order to build
confidence and positivity. Examples of such affirmations are “I am strong and capable of
giving birth”, “Each contraction brings my baby closer to me”, “My body is designed to
birth my baby”.
7.2 Physical preparation
1) Regular Prenatal Check-ups: You have to schedule regular appointments with your
healthcare provider.
2) Exercise and physical activity: Engage in activities that are pregnancy friendly such as
prenatal yoga or swimming.
3) Healthy Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients
4) Rest and Sleep: Prioritize getting enough rest and managing fatigue.
7.3 Hospital Bag Checklist
Packing your hospital bag ahead of time ensures that you are prepared for a smooth and
comfortable experience. A well-stocked bag should include essentials for the mother, the baby
and some important documents
1) Mother’s essentials:
- Comfortable clothes for labor and postpartum
- Toiletries (tissue, toothbrush, postpartum pads, hairbrush etc)
- Pillow and blanket(if desired)
- Snacks and drinks
2) Baby’s essentials
- Warm baby clothes(with caps, socks)
- Swaddle blankets
- Diapers
- Baby’s Vaseline
3) Important documents
- Insurance cards(if any)
- National Identity Card
- Birth plan
- Contact information for healthcare provider
7.4 Birth planning and family involvement
Birth planning involves outlining your preferences for labor, delivery and postpartum care. This
plan serves as a guide for your healthcare provider and support team, ensuring your wishes are
respected. There are important key aspects to consider:
1) Labor Preferences
Labor preferences outline your wishes for the labor process. It has some key
considerations:
Pain Management: Specify your preferred pain relief options, such as:
- Epidural anesthesia
- Natural methods (Breathing techniques, massage, water immersion)
- Other options (nitrous oxide, etc)
Monitoring and interventions: Decide on your preferences for:
- Fetal monitoring (continuous or intermittent)
- Intravenous fluids (routine or as needed)
- Other interventions (amniotomy, etc)
2) Delivery Preferences
This focuses on your wishes for the delivery process. Some key considerations:
Birthing positions: Specify your preferred positions such as:
- Lying down
- Sitting
- Standing
- Water birth
Family Involvement
Family involvement is crucial for emotional support and decision-making during the delivery
process. This involves:
1) Partner’s role:
- Discuss expectations from your partner and his roles during labor and delivery
- Decide on the level of involvement in decision making
2) Support System:
- Inform family and closed friends about your birth plan
- Identify who will provide emotional support during labor and postpartum
3) Involvement in decision-making:
- Decide who will make decisions during labor and delivery
- Discuss preferences for communication and involvement
By being thoroughly prepared, you will be better equipped to navigate the delivery process and
enjoy this special moment.
