If your due date is approaching, you're probably excited but also anxious about the arrival of your new family member. With that excitement comes a level of uncertainty. Do I know the signs of labor? Am I forgetting anything about my stay at the clinic? Am I ready for the arrival of my new baby? We understand that you want to feel as prepared as possible. This simple birth preparation checklist can give you some peace of mind knowing that you're properly prepared. By the end, you'll know the signs that your baby is coming, what to bring to the clinic, and how to safely transport him home.

Signs of labor starting

Considering the possibility that your little one may arrive earlier than expected, you should start preparing for your new baby in the third trimester, the last stage of pregnancy. One of the best ways to prepare for labor is to familiarize yourself with the signs before your due date. Here are the most common signs of labor.

⇒ Pelvic pressure Two to four weeks before labor, expect your baby to "slightly" descend into your pelvis. Pelvic and rectal pressure, as well as increased frequency of urination, usually accompany the process. The upside is that you can finally get relief from shortness of breath as your baby settles away from your diaphragm.

⇒ Loss of mucus plug. The mucus plug is actually a ball of thick mucus that may be slightly tinged with blood. It is expelled through the cervical opening and out of the vagina and is sometimes followed by mild contractions. The loss of the mucus plug can occur one to two weeks before labor, a few hours before, or sometimes not at all.

⇒ Braxton Hicks contractions. Braxton Hicks contractions, sometimes referred to as preparatory contractions, are practice contractions. They are one of the signs of labor that you should watch out for during the third trimester. Braxton Hicks can start three to four weeks before labor and are described as an irregular, gentle rocking sensation in the lower abdomen. The difference between false contractions and true labor contractions is that Braxton Hicks contractions are not progressive and do not come closer together over time. If you think your “water has broken,” you should call your obstetrician immediately. The term refers to the rupture of the amniotic sac, which surrounds the fetus and contains amniotic fluid. Although the breaking of your waters has been associated with a sudden flow of fluid, this often does not occur and may be limited to a few drops of warm, clear fluid. This is a well-known sign that labor is beginning.

⇒ True Contractions  Another sure sign of labor is when your contractions increase in intensity, frequency, and duration. The pain is described as period-like pain that is felt in the lower back and abdomen.

What to take with you in your clinic suitcase

One of the top questions discussed by moms is what to pack in their maternity bag. The answer can vary. For first-time moms, they usually overpack compared to a mom experiencing her second or third pregnancy. Also keep in mind that each clinic provides different items for mothers and newborns. Calling the clinic in advance to find out what is provided or asking during a tour can be extremely helpful. For example, diapers for newborns and some maternity care items are usually provided. Our comprehensive checklist for expectant mothers should be ready around 34 weeks. Among the items you definitely don't want to forget are important documents such as ID, health booklet and any other required documents.

Do you have one? breastfeeding support plan. If you plan to breastfeed, you should know that there is a learning curve. You can prepare for breastfeeding in advance by implementing certain practices. Eat well and stay hydrated. Make sure you are getting all the right vitamins. Once baby arrives, you can increase your milk supply by breastfeeding frequently. Hold your baby in different ways to encourage him to latch on and nurse. A breast pump is sometimes recommended to allow you to express milk when you are away from your baby. Talk to a lactation consultant to help you with any challenges you may be facing.

Transport your new baby safely This part of the checklist is extremely short, if you stick to the basics: exit clothes and a properly installed car seat. You may also want to include newborn diapers and some clothes in different sizes – not all newborns wear “newborn size”. Since newborns cannot regulate their body temperature, keeping your baby warm is crucial – they should not be too cold or too hot. If you are a new parent or are unsure of how to properly install your car seat, consult your car’s authorized service center. You can also look for installation videos on the manufacturer’s website.

Take a deep breath. The stages of pregnancy can be a whirlwind! Remember that you are fully equipped with everything you need and are fully prepared for childbirth. Soon you will be holding your new baby in your arms. For now, prepare properly and relax as much as you can until the day of birth.

In our modern clinic, we offer quality care. Your safety, comfort and peace of mind are top priorities. For further questions or to schedule a prenatal appointment, contact us today at (+30) 2310 220267.