PLANNING FOR THE BIG DAY

The big day is finally coming! Having a baby is a life altering transformation for all women, and although pregnancy is the beginning of that change the actual childbirth is when major changes happen rather quickly. A woman will enter the hospital pregnant and leave with a newborn, and that is a huge transition.  How to prepare for that day can be both easy and difficult because although you can plan and put things in order, no new mother is fully prepared for that big day.  However, there are things that can be done to get you ready for childbirth, so you are not completely overwhelmed with the new arrival.

Understanding your body and the changes that will take place will better equip you for the big day.  Many women begin to feel painless contractions about four weeks prior to delivery.  These exciting contractions are called Braxton Hicks, and do not hurt, or harm the baby.  This is a sign that things are getting close, however, these contractions are not labor.
In order to get a better picture of labor, a Lamaze class should be taken to prepare you for the big day, and help you understand the stages of labor.  Lamaze is beneficial because it will teach you the different breathing techniques that are used as well as the differing birth position options.  Although, many women say they forget what they learn in Lamaze, the important information will come back.
Exercising will help you prepare for the big day by getting your body ready for delivery.  By exercising, you are keeping your body limber, and in shape, which will help you when it comes time to go through labor, push through delivery, and care for your newborn.
Preparing in advance for the big day will make sure that things go as smooth as possible.  Have your birth plan prepared and ready to go, so you know exactly what you want, and whom you want present.  Try to decide on whether or not you will receive medication to help alleviate the labor pains.  Often, this decision changes as the labor progresses, however, if you do have a plan, you may be more inclined to stick with your decisions.  In addition, whom you want in the delivery room should be notified early on, so there are no misunderstandings or hurt feelings that possibly put a damper on the day.
Read as much as you can on pregnancy and delivery because there are many perspectives available.  It is good to absorb as much information as you can as it will help you to be better prepared when the time comes to go to the hospital and give birth.
Of course, having your suitcase packed and ready to go is important, just in case labor comes on fast and hard.  With your bag packed, and your birth plan ready, you will be as ready as you can for the big day!