Get Ready for Baby

Getting ready for a baby to arrive is a big deal. It can be a stressful time in a mother's life, trying to make sure that everything is done and that she has everything she needs. Preparing for the baby's arrival can be intimidating, so we've compiled these tips to help you make sure that you have done what you need to do before the baby comes.

Preparing for the baby's health is probably the most important step. Call your insurance and ask what you need to do to add the baby to your plan. Most insurance companies will add the baby over the phone immediately after they are born. Find out which pediatrician you should use and call them. Make sure that they are accepting new patients and let them know when your baby is due. Stock your medicine cabinet with infant medication that your baby might need in the first few weeks at home. Don't forget a thermometer, cool mist humidifier, and an appropriate liquid medicine syringe.

Preparing yourself for mental support is another important thing to do. Have a list of family and friends that you can call if you need to talk. Other mothers are great for lending an empathetic ear. Have someone stay with you for the first few days so that you can get some rest when you need it. Be sure to have your family ready to get help for you from your doctor if you experience effects of postpartum depression.

Get the essentials ready for your baby. Your stroller, baby bath, lotion, diapers, wipes, and other baby items will help you to feel more prepared. Clothes and blankets should be washed and ready to use. Use a chemical/dye/perfume free detergent made especially for baby's delicate newborn skin. Do not use fabric softeners on your clothes or your baby's clothing. It's a good idea to wash your clothes and your baby's clothes in the baby detergent for the first couple of weeks.

Getting the nursery and your room organized will help to keep you from being overwhelmed in the first few weeks. Organize the baby's closet and label containers with things like socks, pajamas, sheets, and layettes. This will not only make finding what you need easier for you, but also for the other people that may be trying to help you out. Hang delicate fabrics on infant hangers, children's hangers, or baby hangers so that the necks do not get stretched out and the fabrics do not get torn.