While pregnancy is exciting and a bit overwhelming, it is fantastic and dramatic. In only a few short months, you go from an expectant parent to a parent — your life changes for the better. However, even the most exciting changes can require a bit of preparation. Therefore, as you get ready to welcome your 2022 darling into this world, there are a few things you should consider.
Things To Do Before Giving Birth
Before your newborn arrives, there are many things to do. You need to prepare the nursery, purchase a crib, car seat, and other essentials, and prioritize financial and health information. Additionally, you will need to solidify your birthing plan and prepare your hospital stay bags. It also wouldn't hurt to freeze several meals for your first few nights back home. You should also arrange for someone to take care of your pets.
Finding a Community or Support System
While couples have each other, expecting moms and dads can benefit from building a community or support system of people who can relate to their new life. For instance, you might search for expectant parent groups or take parenting classes.
You can also tap into your existing circle of friends and wouldn't for support. New parents often overlook the experience of their parents. If you had a good childhood, why not talk to the people responsible for it?
Finding a social circle that understands your new role is essential as a new parent. While you might have excellent and long-held friendships, it is often challenging for single or childless couples to understand the unique responsibilities or obligations you will face.
Bringing Home Your Newborn
As you prepare to leave the hospital with your newborn, you will need to put them into their first outfit. Dress your baby as you would dress for the weather. A knit hat, footie pajamas, and heavy blanket are likely unnecessary in warm weather.
Ensure your baby is secure in an age-appropriate car seat for the ride home. Do not hold your newborn in your arms while driving home. Some parents might believe a short drive doesn't require the fuss of a car seat but holding your baby during a drive is dangerous and potentially life-threatening.
AdNewborn'sy, don't be too hard on yourself. Many new parents are anxious or terrified once they get home because they are officially alone with their child for the first time. The anxious feelings are natural and should subside eventually.
Keeping Your Newborn Healthy
Many parents worry about keeping their newborns healthy. You can circumvent these worries by contacting your child's pediatrician.
Changes You'll See in Your Newborn's First Month
You can expect to see many changes within your newborn's first month. The first week is all about adjusting and surviving. Your baby will sleep a lot and might show irregular breathing patterns that may scare you, but these are typically normal reflexes.
The second week is a time of learning. Your baby will teach you when it is hungry. It will also provide different cries with different meanings, which you will decipher.
During week three, colic might set in. Additionally, this is the time to introduce tummy time. If you are breastfeeding, you will need to introduce a vitamin D supplement, like those offered by Wellements.
Finally, week four is the week of diaper rash and vaccinations. You will go in for the one-month wellness check and talk to your pediatrician about any concerns.
Bringing a baby home in 2022 is life-changing. Still, it should be exciting, representing a happy time for you and your family.
Sources:
https://www.verywellfamily.com/babys-first-year-guide-4173867
https://fathercraft.com/preparing-for-baby/
https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/my-life/preparing-for-baby/what-to-do-before-giving-birth/?