Expert tips for the delivery room and beyond



Finding out you’re going to be a parent can be both exciting and stressful. But preparation makes for a smoother transition.

To help, Lindsay Pinchuk, mother of two, and founder and CEO of Bump Club and Beyond, a “mommy hub,” is offers these mental and logistical preparation tips:

• Get a bouncer. Decide who’s invited into the delivery room and let the nurses and your loved ones or partner enforce your policy.

• Be CEO of your family. When it comes to parenting decisions, listen to advice, but don’t be pressured into not doing what’s best for your family.

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• Bump up your social circle. Friends with kids around the same age as yours can be a valuable asset for parenting advice and get-togethers. Event companies like Bump Club and Beyond help connect moms and moms-to-be.

• Bringing a baby into the world is hard work. Accept help from friends and family.

• Shower yourself. When creating a registry, don’t overlook useful items you’ll need the most, such as diapers and wipes.

• Get informed. Take an infant CPR class. Bring your significant other and anyone who will be caring for the baby.

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• Learn basics. Find a class that teaches basics, such as how to diaper, swaddle and bathe your baby.

• Read the manual. Babies don’t come with a manual, but their gear does. Be sure to read life-saving information like your car seat manual before baby arrives.

• Hug it out. Skin-to-skin contact with the baby right after birth helps regulate the baby’s breathing and heartbeat, and keeps him or her warm and prepared to nurse.

• Pack Early. Pack your hospital bag a few weeks beforehand. The hospital is no hotel, so don’t forget shampoo, conditioner an extra pillow, flip flops for the shower, a robe and an extra bag.

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• Hoard. Many hospitals will send you home with ice packs, disposable underwear and other supplies to help aid recovery. Take what you can!

Still stressed? Take a deep breath and relax in the knowledge that no matter what happens, the love you’ll feel for your baby is indescribable.

Read more: So, you're going to be a new dad!

Article courtesy of State Point