Preparing for Birth
Preparing your body, your mind, and your family to welcome a new baby is essential to having a smooth transition into birthing and motherhood. Understanding how your child is developing within you and how that baby will be born is also important. Seeking physical, emotional, and psychological support as well as educating yourself about your options for prenatal care, birth, and the postpartum period will allow you to feel more empowered and at ease. There are many resources available in our community to help you have a healthy and enjoyable pregnancy and birth. See our Resources page for organizations, books, and websites that provide information about preparing for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
Remember that having a baby is a major life event! Preparation is more than just picking out nursery colors and baby names. Putting together a list can help you prepare for this exciting transformation.
Preparing your body, your mind, and your family to welcome a new baby is essential to having a smooth transition into birthing and motherhood. Understanding how your child is developing within you and how that baby will be born is also important. Seeking physical, emotional, and psychological support as well as educating yourself about your options for prenatal care, birth, and the postpartum period will allow you to feel more empowered and at ease. There are many resources available in our community to help you have a healthy and enjoyable pregnancy and birth. See our Resources page for organizations, books, and websites that provide information about preparing for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
Remember that having a baby is a major life event! Preparation is more than just picking out nursery colors and baby names. Putting together a list can help you prepare for this exciting transformation.
Photographer: Nikki Williams http://bedheadbirth.com/
Getting ready to have a baby involves:
Selecting a practitioner.
Choosing a caregiver who shares your values as they relate to prenatal care, birth, and postpartum care of the newborn and mother is one of the most important decisions you will make as your prepare to welcome your baby. During pregnancy, your provider will monitor your health and that of your baby, assist you in making healthy choices to help reduce the risk of illness, and observe the progress and changes. Your health provider may also help you with the birth of your child. Understanding your options will help you make the most educated choice.
To learn more about the different types of maternity care providers, and what to consider when making your choice, please go to our page about Doctors and Midwives.
Our Yahoo Group is a great source of information about issues surrounding caregiver choice in general, and about specific practices in the area. In addition, you may Contact Us with any questions you have about finding a provider in the area.
Deciding where you want to birth your baby- a hospital, birth center, or home.
Deciding where you want to birth your baby is an important step in the preparation process, since the birth location can have a major influence on your birth experience and outcome. Your environment is a large part of your comfort level, holding sounds, smells and memories that can relax or upset you. All places you may choose to birth come with their own rules, restrictions and guidelines. Prepare yourself by researching these, and how they relate to your own and your baby's needs, health history, and desires for your birth and immediate postpartum care.
To learn more about the different options for where to have your baby, please see our page about Birth Locations.
To learn more about what options are available in the DC area, please click here for our directory of Midwives that practice in hospitals, birth centers, and homes.
Our Yahoo Group is a great source of information about issues surrounding the choice of birth location in general, and about specific facilities in the area. In addition, you may Contact Us with any questions you have about choosing a birth location in the area.
Choosing a childbirth education method and finding a class.
A childbirth education class helps put together the information you learn from your own research, from your provider, and from family and friends. In addition, a childbirth education class provides the opportunity for discussion, and to learn from an experienced instructor, usually alongside other expectant parents. Many childbirth education classes become a postpartum support group after participants have had their babies, so you already have a network of parents to call upon as you begin your parenting journey. There are a wide variety of classes available in our area, ranging from one-day intensive workshops to 12-week courses to online classes. The classes follow many different methods, each with their own unique approach. To find out more about the different methods of childbirth education available in our area, learn which may be the best fit for you, and find a class near you, see our Directory of Childbirth Education Classes in the DC Area.
Our Yahoo Group is a great source of information about issues surrounding childbirth education in general, and about specific classes and instructors in the area. In addition, you may Contact Us with any questions you have about choosing a childbirth education class in the area.
Selecting a practitioner.
Choosing a caregiver who shares your values as they relate to prenatal care, birth, and postpartum care of the newborn and mother is one of the most important decisions you will make as your prepare to welcome your baby. During pregnancy, your provider will monitor your health and that of your baby, assist you in making healthy choices to help reduce the risk of illness, and observe the progress and changes. Your health provider may also help you with the birth of your child. Understanding your options will help you make the most educated choice.
To learn more about the different types of maternity care providers, and what to consider when making your choice, please go to our page about Doctors and Midwives.
Our Yahoo Group is a great source of information about issues surrounding caregiver choice in general, and about specific practices in the area. In addition, you may Contact Us with any questions you have about finding a provider in the area.
Deciding where you want to birth your baby- a hospital, birth center, or home.
Deciding where you want to birth your baby is an important step in the preparation process, since the birth location can have a major influence on your birth experience and outcome. Your environment is a large part of your comfort level, holding sounds, smells and memories that can relax or upset you. All places you may choose to birth come with their own rules, restrictions and guidelines. Prepare yourself by researching these, and how they relate to your own and your baby's needs, health history, and desires for your birth and immediate postpartum care.
To learn more about the different options for where to have your baby, please see our page about Birth Locations.
To learn more about what options are available in the DC area, please click here for our directory of Midwives that practice in hospitals, birth centers, and homes.
Our Yahoo Group is a great source of information about issues surrounding the choice of birth location in general, and about specific facilities in the area. In addition, you may Contact Us with any questions you have about choosing a birth location in the area.
Choosing a childbirth education method and finding a class.
A childbirth education class helps put together the information you learn from your own research, from your provider, and from family and friends. In addition, a childbirth education class provides the opportunity for discussion, and to learn from an experienced instructor, usually alongside other expectant parents. Many childbirth education classes become a postpartum support group after participants have had their babies, so you already have a network of parents to call upon as you begin your parenting journey. There are a wide variety of classes available in our area, ranging from one-day intensive workshops to 12-week courses to online classes. The classes follow many different methods, each with their own unique approach. To find out more about the different methods of childbirth education available in our area, learn which may be the best fit for you, and find a class near you, see our Directory of Childbirth Education Classes in the DC Area.
Our Yahoo Group is a great source of information about issues surrounding childbirth education in general, and about specific classes and instructors in the area. In addition, you may Contact Us with any questions you have about choosing a childbirth education class in the area.
Photo: Nikki Williams http://bedheadbirth.com/
Considering what type of support you will need during and after the birth and assembling your “team”.
During labor, a support person can provide emotional encouragement, advocacy, information, and gentle (non intrusive) physical support such as massage, use of hot/cold, breathing, visualization, positioning, and movement. Labor support people can be family, friends, or professionals, such as a doula. Generally, a labor support person will not provide your medical care, unless that individual is a midwife assistant or apprentice.
Please see our sections on Doulas and Other Birth Support, as well as Postpartum Support, for ideas and suggestions about planning who you would like with you during and after your birth.
Our Yahoo Group is a great way to get referrals for doulas and other support people. In addition, you may Contact Us with any questions you have about assembling your support team.
Familiarizing yourself with educational resources about pregnancy, birth, and parenting.
There are a multitude of resources to help educate, empower and support you during your childbearing year. Reading books, viewing movies and researching on websites assists you in preparing for pregnancy, birth and parenthood with information, suggestions, and ideas. Additionally it helps to give you a preview of things you may experience and present stories, situations and options you may not have known about.
If you need ideas for where to start, take a look at our Supplemental Reading/Viewing List for some suggestions, or ask for recommendations from our community. Birth Options Alliance, as well as many birth professionals in the area, maintain lending libraries of books and films relating to birth, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum issues, so please Contact Us or inquire on our Yahoo Group to see if the particular materials you’re interested in are available for borrowing. Our Facebook Page is another source of current pregnancy and birth-related news and information.
Preparing financially and reviewing your family budget.
See our page on Payment Options for some ideas.
Getting to know your growing baby.
Womb babies have been trying to get their parents’ attention since the first child was conceived. The prenatal and perinatal experiences are formative for both babies and parents, and tend to establish patterns of intimacy and sociality for life. Talking to a baby, acknowledging a baby, and loving a baby are the most important interactions that can take place during pregnancy. They will not only lead to strong emotional health, but also prepare baby's mind to learn, discover and grow for a prosperous and joyful life.
The child growing in your womb may not be able to see the outside world, but he or she is an active participant in life. A baby in the womb feels, hears, and moves in rhythm to his mother's voice from within the amniotic sac. Studies have shown that babies are able to recognize familiar voices, such as dad's, remember songs, and prefer stories that they have heard while growing in the womb. From the womb he is learning to perceive life.
Preparing your mind by reaching a healthy mental state and understanding what it means to be a parent.
This includes seeking help, support, or advice if you’ve had previous depression or mental health issues. Addressing your mental health during pregnancy is vital for both mother and baby’s wellbeing. Pregnancy is a very emotional time. Often psychological challenges arise, directly affecting development and physical health as well as relationships and feelings. Recognizing risk factors of mood and anxiety disorders, grief or trauma and supporting healthy mental and emotional practices throughout pregnancy is essential to reduce the risk of negativity and promote healthy attachment.
Click here to see our list of local resources for Mental Health Support for the Childbearing Year. There are several therapists and support groups in the area that specialize in supporting pregnant women and new parents as they prepare for the changes that having a baby brings.
Preparing your body by attaining a healthy and safe lifestyle. This includes seeking help for any current medical issues, pain, or problems.
There are many practitioners who specialize in treatment of pregnant and postpartum women as well as infants, whose work is complementary to the basic care that you receive from your maternity care provider. Some of these specialists include massage therapists, chiropractors, craniosacral therapists, acupuncturists, herbalists, and nutritionists. Birth Options Alliance maintains a Directory of Alternative and Complementary Providers in the DC area.
General guidelines for exercise during pregnancy: Staying fit and keeping well is important during pregnancy for your mental and physical health as well as your baby’s. Keep in mind, if you have been regularly exercising, continuing your routine at a lower impact is very beneficial. If you haven’t exercised before, it is important not to push it. Pregnancy is not the time to take up horseback riding or long distance running. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that healthy pregnant women get at least 2 1/2 hours of aerobic exercise every week. This could include swimming, walking, yoga, or even a prenatal exercise program. Don’t push yourself. Most importantly, listen to your body.
During labor, a support person can provide emotional encouragement, advocacy, information, and gentle (non intrusive) physical support such as massage, use of hot/cold, breathing, visualization, positioning, and movement. Labor support people can be family, friends, or professionals, such as a doula. Generally, a labor support person will not provide your medical care, unless that individual is a midwife assistant or apprentice.
Please see our sections on Doulas and Other Birth Support, as well as Postpartum Support, for ideas and suggestions about planning who you would like with you during and after your birth.
Our Yahoo Group is a great way to get referrals for doulas and other support people. In addition, you may Contact Us with any questions you have about assembling your support team.
Familiarizing yourself with educational resources about pregnancy, birth, and parenting.
There are a multitude of resources to help educate, empower and support you during your childbearing year. Reading books, viewing movies and researching on websites assists you in preparing for pregnancy, birth and parenthood with information, suggestions, and ideas. Additionally it helps to give you a preview of things you may experience and present stories, situations and options you may not have known about.
If you need ideas for where to start, take a look at our Supplemental Reading/Viewing List for some suggestions, or ask for recommendations from our community. Birth Options Alliance, as well as many birth professionals in the area, maintain lending libraries of books and films relating to birth, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum issues, so please Contact Us or inquire on our Yahoo Group to see if the particular materials you’re interested in are available for borrowing. Our Facebook Page is another source of current pregnancy and birth-related news and information.
Preparing financially and reviewing your family budget.
See our page on Payment Options for some ideas.
Getting to know your growing baby.
Womb babies have been trying to get their parents’ attention since the first child was conceived. The prenatal and perinatal experiences are formative for both babies and parents, and tend to establish patterns of intimacy and sociality for life. Talking to a baby, acknowledging a baby, and loving a baby are the most important interactions that can take place during pregnancy. They will not only lead to strong emotional health, but also prepare baby's mind to learn, discover and grow for a prosperous and joyful life.
The child growing in your womb may not be able to see the outside world, but he or she is an active participant in life. A baby in the womb feels, hears, and moves in rhythm to his mother's voice from within the amniotic sac. Studies have shown that babies are able to recognize familiar voices, such as dad's, remember songs, and prefer stories that they have heard while growing in the womb. From the womb he is learning to perceive life.
Preparing your mind by reaching a healthy mental state and understanding what it means to be a parent.
This includes seeking help, support, or advice if you’ve had previous depression or mental health issues. Addressing your mental health during pregnancy is vital for both mother and baby’s wellbeing. Pregnancy is a very emotional time. Often psychological challenges arise, directly affecting development and physical health as well as relationships and feelings. Recognizing risk factors of mood and anxiety disorders, grief or trauma and supporting healthy mental and emotional practices throughout pregnancy is essential to reduce the risk of negativity and promote healthy attachment.
Click here to see our list of local resources for Mental Health Support for the Childbearing Year. There are several therapists and support groups in the area that specialize in supporting pregnant women and new parents as they prepare for the changes that having a baby brings.
Preparing your body by attaining a healthy and safe lifestyle. This includes seeking help for any current medical issues, pain, or problems.
There are many practitioners who specialize in treatment of pregnant and postpartum women as well as infants, whose work is complementary to the basic care that you receive from your maternity care provider. Some of these specialists include massage therapists, chiropractors, craniosacral therapists, acupuncturists, herbalists, and nutritionists. Birth Options Alliance maintains a Directory of Alternative and Complementary Providers in the DC area.
General guidelines for exercise during pregnancy: Staying fit and keeping well is important during pregnancy for your mental and physical health as well as your baby’s. Keep in mind, if you have been regularly exercising, continuing your routine at a lower impact is very beneficial. If you haven’t exercised before, it is important not to push it. Pregnancy is not the time to take up horseback riding or long distance running. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that healthy pregnant women get at least 2 1/2 hours of aerobic exercise every week. This could include swimming, walking, yoga, or even a prenatal exercise program. Don’t push yourself. Most importantly, listen to your body.
- Benefits: Exercise can help both you and your baby grow stronger. Regular exercise keeps your body fit and healthy and reduces the risk of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression. You will also reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, increase your chances of having a smoother labor and reduce recovery time.
- Safety considerations: Remember not to do anything that requires balance one your belly exceeds your waistline, such as riding a bike or skiing. Wear loose fitting clothes, a support bra, and comfortable shoes. Avoid exercises that require long periods of lying on your back or sitting still. Be sure to stay hydrated
- Exercise options: There are many exercise programs specifically designed for pregnant women, such as prenatal yoga, prenatal water classes, pregnancy fit, and stroller strides. Coming Soon: BOA's list of pre-and post-natal yoga and exercise classes in the DC area.
