For first time parents, or for fifth time parents, here are some posts that may be helpful!
PREP:
Writing up your birth plan/wishes.
Here is the post on comfort measures to practice during pregnancy (the ice cube trick!)
Packing list for the hospital or
Homebirth or
Birth center.
My very biased list of baby essentials (and stuff to not bother getting.)
Scriptures that may inspire you through your pregnancy and birth. (If you have more to suggest please let me know!)
Kit’s notes from the class for new dads.
BIRTH:
Helping a slow to start labor also known as prodromal labor.
How you can know when it’s time to go!
Emergency childbirth – not to freak you out.
Tips for your partner to help alleviate your stress in birth.
Here’s a great video and photos on comfort measures.
And here to print out is the comfort measures in labor packet, good to review before birth.
POSTPARTUM:
Sleep tips for you and your newborn.
To discuss during pregnancy and keep handy for review after the birth – this is the Edinburgh Scale to assess postpartum depression. Please discuss this with your partner, care provider, and doula – Edinburgh Scale
This is the Postpartum Promise, another way that moms can let their care team know in advance that she’s aware of PPD and would like their help in assessing her after birth – PPD Promise
Tips for new dads from a father of six! (Includes Kit’s swaddling demo video.)