What to expect when you are expecting (from a pediatric provider's point of view)

Congratulation on entering this last phase of your pregnancy! We know you are excited to meet this little human you have been busy growing for the last 9 months. We can't wait to meet them too! As pediatric providers and parents ourselves we know that this season of your life can be filled with excitement but also some anxiety and apprehension about the changes that are coming up. This is normal and we have been there too. We have compiled a list of some things to help you prepare for the arrival of your baby. While these tips can help you feel more prepared there will likely be situations that arise that you weren't expecting. We encourage you to call us when that happens. There are no silly questions. 

Suggestions to Prepare for Baby

1. Obtain a car seat and install it in the backseat: It is recommended to install the car seat on either the far right or left seat and not in the middle. The car seat for an infant should be back facing. We recommend stopping by your local fire department so that they can make sure your seat is installed correctly. Each brand of car seat has slightly different directions. Definitely, don’t wait until you are at the hospital to try to figure out how install it. Taking it in and out of the car will become second nature but can be very frustrating at first.  It is way better to have that experience at home.

2. Make sure the crib is safe: The crib should have slats that are not more than 2 and 3/8 inches apart. You should also position the crib in the room so that it is not directly under an air vent or near the window. Babies are very sensitive to hot and cold and being near a vent or a window can drastically change their internal body temperature.

3. You may also consider a bassinet or pack and play to have in mom’s room: Babies typically wake every two hours or so throughout the night when they are first born. It may be easier to have them close at hand through the night in the beginning.

4. Install smoke detectors in your home: Most homes today have smoke detectors installed but in the event that you are living in an older home make sure that your smoke detectors are working and are positioned around your house appropriately.

5. Attend a childbirth and infant CPR class: There isn’t always time at your prenatal appointments to really educate you about what the experience of childbirth is like. There are some great classes in our area and we are happy to recommend one for you. Also, we highly recommend an infant CPR class. We hope you never have to use it but it is always better to be prepared.

6. Talk to your other children and family members about what it might be like to have a new baby at home: Give them the opportunity to ask questions so that they can feel as comfortable as possible. Validate their feelings whatever they may be and if necessary help them to connect with support systems to encourage a more seamless transition to their new role in the family.

7. Talk with your OB provider about how you can expect to feel after delivery: It is not uncommon for women with the intense fluctuation of hormones and changes to your sleep scheduled to feel a wide array of emotions. Please know that whatever you may feel it is ok and normal. It is a good idea to look into support systems ahead of time so that if you feel like you are having a hard time you know who to reach out to.

8. Start practicing accepting help when it is offered: Women tend to feel like we can do everything on our own. But keep in mind there is no award for how many tasks you complete. It is ok to accept help and in fact it is recommended as you are embarking on a big life change. Having a community of support around you can make the experience of bringing a new baby home a much more pleasant experience.

The last and arguably the most import take away from this post is that just because we are pediatric providers does not mean that we can't be a support for you as well. A happy, healthy mom is the best recipe for a happy, healthy baby. Mom your body has just gone through a major event and the hormones that you spent 9 months accumulating are now leaving you in rapid fashion. You are trying to heal physically and are most likely getting less sleep than you are used to. This is a lot to go through and no matter how much you prepare it can be a shock to your system. PLEASE know we want to know how you are feeling. Society puts alot of pressure on new moms to "bounce back". You are expected to be happy, look put together, and go back to your pre baby self in record time.  This is not reality and we do not expect any of these things from you here. You are welcome and encouraged to come here as your true authentic self and to feel comfortable to tell me your truths. Keep in mind I am a support person. I selected this profession out of a desire to help people. This is a safe space. 

Author

Sarah Elliott Pediatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in primary care. Practicing in Nashville, TN.