Tips to Prepare for Baby (for mom / partner)
• P
ARTNER: Emotions are not “in her head.” She also
does not have much control over how she feels. Be
extra understanding and support her.
• B
OTH: It’s very important to go to childbirth classes
together. Both of you will be a big part of the labor and
delivery process.
• B
OTH: Keep talking, singing and reading to your baby.
Your baby will recognize your voice when born.
FIRST TRIMESTER
• BOTH: Are you ready for this? It’s normal for you both
to be nervous and scared, and to wonder if you are
really ready. Talk about your feelings together.
• P
ARTNER: This is your pregnancy, too! Mom
is going to need your help. Don’t think that just because
the baby is inside her that there’s nothing for you to do.
• M
OM: Symptoms of pregnancy may start to appear.
This might include morning sickness, weight gain and
heartburn. It’s a good idea to drink lots of water, eat
healthy food and exercise.
• P
ARTNER: You can help by doing activities with her and
by helping out around the house when she is tired.
• B
OTH: Stop any bad habits – drinking alcohol, smoking
or using drugs. It will be easier if you quit together.
• B
OTH: Start talking to your baby. Your baby can hear
and will learn to recognize both of your voices long
before he or she is born.
SECOND TRIMESTER
• B
OTH: Mom – you probably want to go to every baby
store there is. Partner – it’s important that you be a part
of getting ready for your baby too.
• B
OTH: The most important thing you need to buy for
your baby is a car seat. Make sure the car seat fits in
your car, and that the seat belts will securely hold the
car seat. Check that it is certified to be used in a car and
isn’t just a baby carrier. Have your car seat checked by
a car seat technician at Wilcox Medical Center at no
cost on the third Tuesday of each month. To make an
appointment, call 245-1511.
• M
OM: Changes in hormones may cause you to be
more emotional than usual. This is completely normal.
THIRD TRIMESTER
• BOTH: The big day is almost here!
• P
ARTNER: Mom will need lots of support and
reassurance. Remind her how beautiful she is. Tell her
how great you feel to see her belly grow bigger with
your baby. Place your hand on her belly often to feel
your baby moving.
• B
OTH: Keep talking to your baby. Your baby can hear
everything you say, and will recognize both of your
voices when he or she is born.
• BOTH: Don’t miss any prenatal care checkups.
• BOTH: Attend childbirth classes together.
• BOTH: Talk about names for your baby.
• P
ARTNER: Plan on being in the delivery room when
your baby is born. Mom needs you there. If you’re
worried, talk to her about your concerns.
• B
OTH: Expect skin-to-skin contact until the completion
of the first feed after delivery. We consider this the
“magical hour.”
Having Your Baby at WMC | 7