Due Date Preparations

Preparation tips for various aspects of the due date: birth plan, hospital checklist, labor and delivery – these are your due date preparations.

Plan for the due date

Since the birth of your baby is a special occasion, prioritizing the tasks necessary will help you prepare for this event. If you are overwhelmed by the amount of tasks that have to be completed before the due date, simply make a check list with items and then tackle the items on your check list one by one.

Birth plan

There are many aspects of the birth to consider, and making a thorough birth plan stating your preferences for the birth of your baby will be helpful for anyone involved in the birth – the midwife, medical staff, and so forth. Some of your stated preferences may answer the following questions: How much time over the due date do I want to wait before receiving induced labor? Do I want to give birth at home with a midwife or at the hospital? Do I want the option to stay at the hospital regardless of my dilation stage? Distribute a copy of the birth plan to everyone who will be directly involved in the birth. Your preferences should be fairly flexible, because events may not always progress as planned.

Hospital checklist

A hospital checklist will be helpful for helping you determine what to bring to the hospital. Ask your healthcare provider which labor items (such as a tub, birthing ball, etc.) are provided by the hospital, and which you should bring. The labor might take a while, so once you are admitted, be sure to bring along objects that will pass the time and make you more comfortable – food, drink, books, music, or even extra pillows.

Labor

After arriving at the hospital and being evaluated by a doctor, you may be asked to walk around a bit or even to return home for a while. Early in the labor process, discuss your preference for pain management such as if you prefer to be medicated or receive an epidural.

Delivery

Prepare for delivery through coaching by medical staff on when to ‘push’ or by being ready for assisted delivery if required. There are also pregnancy courses available to train you on special breathing techniques. If you prefer a C-section, this will have to be arranged ahead of time with the hospital or healthcare provider. In the case of a C-Section, another person will be allowed to come with you for support. Choose this person ahead of time to make sure they can be there when the time comes.

Think Positive

You may not be able to plan for all aspects of the birth or for unexpected events, so focus on the overall positive big picture. You will soon be welcoming a new member to your family.