Getting Ready for the Birth

In the last few months of pregnancy, there are a few things to think about. Remember the signs of premature labour (more information in A Healthy Start for Baby and Me, available from Best Start www.beststart.org). You may also go into labour a week or two before or after your due date. The following are some things to have ready before baby is born.

1. Calling your health-care provider

• Health-care provider’s phone number
• Hospital phone number, if you are having a hospital birth
• Be ready to tell them…
  • When did contractions start?
  • Have you had bloody show?
  • Have your membranes ruptured (water broken; note time and appearance)?
  • How long are contractions (How many minutes are there from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next contraction)?
  • Other symptoms (nausea, back pain)?
• Phone number for people you need to contact before leaving home

2. Your suitcase packed with the following (for hospital births)

• Nightgown or pajamas
• Housecoat and slippers
• Underwear
• Sanitary pads (super absorbent and/or specifically for postpartum or overnight use)
• Nursing bra
• Toiletries (soap, shampoo, etc.)
• Joy of Parenting
• A focal point, backrub tools, massage oil, music and something to play it on, etc.
• Birth plan
• Disposable diapers if you want to use them in hospital
• Your own pillow
• Don’t forget your Health card and any supplementary insurance plan card

3. An extra bag for coming home (bring this to the hospital at discharge)

• Mom’s homecoming outfit (fits third to fourth month of pregnancy)
• Diapers
• Undershirt or onesie
• Baby’s homecoming outfit (sleeper and hat)
• Light to heavy blanket (depending on the season)
• Baby’s car seat!

4. At home have the following:

• Meals ready for the week or two after you come home
• Laundry caught up
• Help with household duties and new parent relief
• Baby’s room ready (see the section “Getting Ready for Baby”)