Best Ways To Prepare For Your Baby’s Delivery

Every woman experiences some type of anxiety related to her pregnancy, much of which revolves around giving birth. When it comes to preparing for your baby’s delivery, the most important thing to know is that you can do this! Your body was created to carry and deliver a new life into the world. It is an exciting time, and getting prepared to deliver your baby does not need to stress you out. It is, however, important to be prepared.

One of the most important things you can do for your growing baby and for yourself to prepare for your baby’s delivery is to be as healthy as you can throughout your entire pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy diet, taking your prenatal vitamins, and staying hydrated are essential components of a healthy pregnancy. While it is commonly joked about that pregnant women are “eating for two,” that is truly not the case. The baby that is growing requires very little extra in the form of calories. Only 300-500 extra calories are needed each day to support the development of a growing baby. An apple and a tablespoon of peanut butter can provide these extra calories in a healthy way, so do not allow yourself to fall into the trap of consuming too many calories. Gaining too much weight during pregnancy often leads to a more difficult labor and delivery, not to mention the difficulty that many women have losing their pregnancy weight after giving birth. Eliminating empty calories from sweets and junk foods, limiting fast food options, and watching portion sizes will contribute to a healthy pregnancy.

Exercise is also important throughout pregnancy. All exercise should be discussed with your doctor before beginning an exercise routine, especially if you were not active before you became pregnant. Daily walking is one of the best exercises there is, whether you are pregnant or not, and it is a method that can easily be added to your routine. Exercise during pregnancy helps your body build the endurance your will need to tackle labor and delivery.

Stay positive! Do not listen to negative birth experiences – they truly are the exception. Talk with your doctor and partner about any fears or concerns regarding childbirth to avoid the pitfall of becoming overly anxious. Giving birth is a miraculous experience, and you can do it!

At Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A., our providers are highly skilled and compassionate. We want to help you prepare for your baby’s delivery, and are committed to helping you achieve a positive birth experience.