Making a childbirth checklist and preparing for childbirth the right way can prevent lot of hassle that may arise at the last moment. Read on to learn more about helping pregnant wife with childbirth checklist.The childbirth checklist is a list of things that your wife and child are going to need before and after labour. Keeping in mind the fact that the mother-to-be is usually too stressed out and anxious to think during this period it often falls upon the father to be to
take care of all the items in the checklist and see that they are taken care of. The checklist will include many items that address the physical, psychological and emotional needs of the mother and child. Here are the ways in which you can help prepare this checklist.
Medication, Vitamins and Essentials
Usually, the pregnant woman is given a list of medication and vitamins to consume during the immediate pre-
labour phases. It is not essential that the hospital where you are going to will contain the medication. So, make sure all the medication and vitamins that will be required are brought in advance as per the prescription of doctor and packed in a separate bag.
Ask your doctor for a list of emergency medication during the labour and post labour phases and then buy and stock those too. This will ensure that there is no frantic running around during the critical labour phases.
Food and Liquid Nourishment
Going into labour automatically drains out a lot of fluid from the body. This basically means that there is a high chance of your wife going into dehydration especially if she is experiencing a natural birthing process. Make sure that you pack plenty of organic non acidic juices like pineapple juice, pear juice, water and honey mixture.
Most women going into labour do not get the chance of eating anything solid so make sure that you pack in some yoghurt, crackers and nuts to give your wife some energy during the physically exhausting process. However, before feeding her anything you should consult the doctor first.
Installing Car Seats
Many hospitals do not allow baby to leave via car unless a proper car seat is installed. The right time to get the car seat installed is much before the actual due date. Remember that installing the seat correctly and then testing it will take some time so make sure that it is done well before time. You might also want to put in some extra pillows and blanket in the car for your wife who will need extra support during the car ride back home.
Lastly make sure that your car is fuelled properly and is in top shape for that important ride back home.
Packing the Maternity Care Kit
This
maternity bag will be absolutely essential to the mother and child as it will ensure their comfort and convenience. Pack in 3-4 dressing gowns, 2-3 nursing bras, about a dozen of knickers, plenty of nappy packets and some sets of newborn wear that you might have purchased before. Ice packs and hot water bags to help relieve sores should also go into the bag.
Stocking-Up the Home and Kitchen
In the absence of your wife who will probably be at the hospital for 5-7 days it is up to you to make your home baby friendly. Make sure that the kitchen is well stocked with easy to cook food items and the freezer is full of food. You never know how much time you will have for grocery
shopping once your newborn arrives.