Christmastime celebrates the birth of a baby so what better time to talk about preparations for your new arrival?

Preparing for the birth of your baby – especially if it is your first – is so important, so I wanted to share a few top tips for new mums that I hope you will find useful.

Remembering that all mums are different and you should always do what feels right and good for you, here is a quick list of recommended steps to take to help you get the birth experience you truly want. If there is anything you’re unsure of, be sure to talk to your GP or midwife.

Rest
In the last four weeks, rest as much as you can. Now is not the time to be redecorating, moving furniture or rushing to complete a project. There will be many sleepless nights ahead, so now is the time to bank some shut eye!

Please take your time to rest and give your body the loving attention it so deserves – you are growing a new human and deserve to be treated like a queen.

Personally, I think this is a great time to do some affirmations, to congratulate yourself on creating and growing a whole human, and allow yourself to feel proud of all you have accomplished.

Fill up
Eat well and enjoy tasty, home-cooked, nutrient-dense foods to really shore up your metabolism and energy stores. If you have been struggling with sickness throughout your pregnancy, remember that just getting some food into you is important – try not to worry too much about how healthy it is. If all you can stomach is ‘beige’ food then don’t put too much pressure on yourself.

If you feel up to it, take light exercise such as walking or swimming every day, which will help keep you mobile, especially if you are struggling with loose ligaments.

Unwind
Why not try meditation? Learning to quiet the mind, deep breathing, soothing the vagus nerve, massaging the belly and lower back all serve to bring you into a space in preparation for the coming experience.

The more relaxed, mentally, physically and emotionally you are, the better. There are lots of guided meditations online that will help you sleep and relax especially in these last months while you may feel most uncomfortable.

Be prepared
Pack your hospital bag and keep it in the car in case you go into labour when you are away from home. Include changes of clothes, notes, phone charger, nappies and have your car seat fitted well in advance of the birth. Keep the tank over half full so you are not caught out!

Make a note
Finally, consider writing a birth plan – not with the intention of everything ‘going to plan’ of course, but rather to have your wishes made clear. When you go into labour, you may not be able to convey your thoughts properly, so it can help to have it written down.
Do you want pain relief, a natural birth, would you like to breastfeed immediately, do you want your birthing partner to cut the cord, do you want the birth time noted?

Preparing for your baby’s arrival is such an exciting time and impossible to plan entirely, so I’ll sum up by saying – take care of yourself, ask questions, make your wishes known and prepare for the ride of your life!

Oh, and congratulations to all new mums reading this – you are amazing! Merry Christmas.