Previous purchases for the mother
Before the arrival of a baby, the illusion for him should not neglect the mother. It is very important that purchases are made in a planned way for both mother and baby. The experience of acquaintances or relatives who have already gone through this situation is very important and all advice should always be listened to, subsequently adapting them to each one's personality. Before childbirth, the appearance of the nest syndrome or also called nesting instinct is very frequent. It is progress in the rush to tidy up, clean and fix the house as the due date approaches. Among other things, they usually wash and fix the clothes of the future baby, order cabinets, clean the house ... It is a way of having the feeling that everything is under control and reducing anxiety in the face of a new situation and also allows to stay distracted at the end of pregnancy . It is more common in gilts. In any case, it should be done in moderation and bearing in mind that it is not the best time for great efforts. It is good to look for other activities that distract the future mother and do not involve as much effort as housework, such as reading a book, going for a walk, doing gymnastics, writing ... Above all, women should not neglect themselves and it is highly recommended to go to the hairdresser shortly before delivery, waxing or getting a beauty treatment.
A few weeks before delivery, the basket should be prepared to go to the hospital. In the basket there must be:
- 3-4 comfortable nightgowns or pajamas, wide if possible and practical when breastfeeding, often with buttons at the neckline or on the shoulder. A robe and slippers should not be forgotten either.
- Comfortable gown and slippers for the days spent at the clinic.
- Breastfeeding bras that are comfortable and easy to open. Little practice the first few days and visits can make something difficult that will be done instinctively later.
- The lactation discs, despite the fact that in some cases they worsen the cracks of the nipple, they are important to avoid staining the clothes during the rise of the milk.
- The underwear is better to be disposable, made of paper so that when you return home you take as little dirty clothes as possible. They should be one or two sizes larger than usual.
- Toiletry bag with all the essentials for daily hygiene: toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, shampoo, bath gel, cologne. You can also take compresses for the return home.
- Makeup should not be forgotten, since it is essential that the new mother takes care of herself and looks as beautiful as possible postpartum, so that she feels more radiant.
- The hair dryer is important not only for the hair but also for the episiotomy cure.
- Postpartum girdle that in many cases will help the mother feel more comfortable by noticing the more supported belly.
- Appropriate clothing for the return home.
- You must also bring the necessary documentation of your pregnancy (analysis, third trimester cultures, pregnancy card if you have it ...) and you must also bring your ID, and the health or mutual card.
Going home also requires your preparation. Postpartum is a sometimes somewhat difficult situation due to the new situation and requires an important organization. Everything that is possible to advance before delivery is important to do it and leave everything ready for the return home. The baby's things must be prepared and, if this is not possible, try to get the family to collaborate in it while the mother is admitted to the clinic. The pantry and refrigerator should have everything you need to optimize the often difficult outings from home after childbirth. If possible, it is worth leaving some prepared food in the freezer for times of trouble. You should think about possible visits from family and friends at home after the birth and leave something ready to offer them. The mother will need special care the first days and it would be convenient to have a small first-aid kit with gauze and iodine in case it is necessary to do some wound care at home. Cotton pads should be available for times at home and avoid the inconvenience of smaller commercials. In case of breastfeeding, breastfeeding cushions that prevent back pain due to poor posture when breastfeeding are of great help and a hot mat also reduces discomfort. Some cream to avoid stretch marks on the nipples can also be useful, as well as having enough nursing pads so as not to get your clothes dirty. Makeup shouldn't be neglected as looking pretty postpartum helps you feel better and cope with some of the toughest moments.
(Updated at Apr 14 / 2024)