6 Tips Every Newborn Parent Needs to Know

1. Schedule An Appointment

Choose Your Provider and Birth Location: Decide whether you prefer an obstetrician, midwife, or family doctor, and determine where you'd like to give birth—hospital, birthing center, or at home Schedule Your First Prenatal Appointment: Contact your chosen provider to book your first visit, which will typically occur around 7-10 weeks

2. Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins

Begin taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid (400-800 mcg), which is essential for fetal development and can help prevent neural tube defects. Discuss your specific needs with your health care provider

3. Review Your Medications and Health Conditions

Some medications and supplements may not be safe during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider to review and adjust them as needed If you have conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or others, work with your doctor to manage them effectively during pregnancy

4. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle

Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and calcium. Avoid foods like raw or undercooked meats, fish high in mercury, and unpasteurized products Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated Avoid Harmful Substances: Stop smoking, drinking alcohol, and limit caffeine intake. Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and substances Maintain or start a moderate exercise routine, like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga Consult your provider before beginning any new exercise regimen

5. Understand Coverage and Prepare for Expenses

Check Insurance Coverage: Review your health insurance to understand what is covered regarding prenatal care, delivery, and postnatal care. If you don’t have insurance, explore options for coverage or government assistance programs. Plan for Costs: Start planning for expenses related to prenatal care, birth, postpartum and baby supplies

6. Learn about Prenatal Tests

Discuss with your healthcare provider the types of prenatal screening tests available, their purposes, and the timing for each test. Understand the potential outcomes and implications of these tests to make informed decisions about your prenatal care

7. Educate Yourself on Pregnancy and Childbirth

Dive into books, articles, and reputable websites about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting to build your knowledge Enroll in prenatal classes or workshops to gain practical insights and prepare for childbirth and parenting

8. Build Your Village

Involve Your Partner/Family: Share the news with your partner or support network when you’re ready, and discuss plans for the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum period Find a Support Group: Look for local or online groups for expecting parents, which can provide emotional support and advice Professional support: Begin reaching out to doulas, lactation consultants, pelvic floor physical therapists, and mental health therapists before your baby arrives. Early connections can help you prepare and provide valuable support throughout your pregnancy and beyond

9. Monitor Your Health

Track Your Pregnancy: Keep track of any symptoms, changes, and questions you might have for your healthcare provider Pay Attention to Warning Signs: Be aware of symptoms like severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, severe headaches, or vision changes, and seek medical help if they occur

10. Schedule Regular Prenatal Appointments

Keep up with regular prenatal visits to monitor your and your baby’s health. Your provider will create a schedule for your visits, which will increase in frequency as your pregnancy progresses