10 Questions To Hash Out When Having A Baby

10 Questions To Hash Out When Having A Baby

First, congratulations on your decision to have a little one! Growing a new human being is an arduous process. What’s more, you’ll have well-meaning relatives and friends bombarding you with different thoughts, opinions and advice. Hence, it’s understandable if you’re feeling overwhelmed. 

Not sure about what you should know about pregnancy and how to prepare for your baby’s arrival? Consider asking yourself:  

1. How should my pregnancy diet be

During pregnancy, you need to consume a diet rich in protein and calcium to ensure the proper growth of your baby. Avoid alcohol and overconsumption of caffeine as these may cause complications. Drink more water than usual; this helps in your digestion, the formation of your amniotic fluid, the circulation of nutrients throughout your body and your excretion processes.

2. Who can accompany me during my labour and postpartum period?

This could be your partner, children, relatives, or even friends. Most hospitals and confinement centres allow new mums to choose who they wish to have with them throughout their labour and postnatal period.

3. Where do I wish to give birth?

Pregnant women have a variety of alternatives to select from, including maternity hospitals, birth centres, and even home birth services. However, no matter which option you choose, you should make sure that there is a skilled birth attendant involved and your needs and preferences are met. 

4. What typically happens in the labour ward or birth centres?

Your gynaecologist would have examined your medical condition to determine which birth process is ideal for you based on your medical history and preference. During labour, medical staff will assist you at every stage of the delivery process

5. Can I walk and move around during labour?

During labour, you can walk about and move around as much as you like. You can pick the positions that are most comfortable for you after talking to your doctor.

6. Are there any cultural and religious beliefs that I would want to follow?

Most mums are usually sensitive when it comes to fulfilling a tradition or a religious ceremony after giving birth. Mother-friendly confinement centres or hospitals can satisfy your demands if you notify them ahead of time.

7. What is an ideal diet for lactating mothers?

It is necessary to take in extra calories if you are breastfeeding. A new mother undergoes heavy menstruation, which may lead to iron deficiency. Hence, it is ideal for lactating mothers to eat food rich in iron and calcium. Breast milk contains high calcium and lack of calcium in your diet may cause a decrease in bone mass. 

8. How much rest is needed after childbirth before resuming daily activities?

Women would require at least 12 weeks to recuperate entirely from delivery. One can return to everyday activities as soon as four weeks after delivery, but they must be careful not to overwork their bodies. You’ll need adequate rest throughout your recovery phase to ensure that the muscles and ligaments that support the uterus regain strength.

9. Are confinements necessary after childbirth ?

Confinements aid in the recovery of new mothers. They provide an avenue for the new mums to obtain the rest and nutrition that they need, and help to rebalance their bodies and minds.

10.What to expect in confinement centres ?

Confinement centres provide new mums with a personal space that caters to all their postpartum care needs, ranging from tailored confinement meals and maternity care to childcare counselling. This gives new mums the opportunity to bounce back healthier and be better prepared to care for their newborns. 

It is totally normal to receive contradicting opinions from people around you. Do not take stress and make decisions based on your own comfort and needs.