Baby, Welcome: a guide for mothers-to-be in 2024

Baby welcome to the wonderful world of life! Your arrival will bring with it endless joy and colourful excitement into the lives of those around you. The joy of the arrival of a new member in your family is one of the most beautiful experiences in a woman's life. Indeed, the moment you hold your little one in your arms for the first time is magical and memorable. To prepare for this wonderful journey, it is important to be informed and to prepare yourself properly.

Baby Welcome: Preparing for Baby's Arrival

From the moment you find out you're pregnant, a wonderful journey of excitement and change begins. Make sure you have a regular routine of antenatal care, including regular check-ups with your gynaecologist and attending prenatal courses. They provide the necessary knowledge about pregnancy, birth and baby care.

In parallel, preparing the room for the baby, purchasing the necessary items, such as clothes, diapers, appropriate furniture and last but not least the maternity baggage, helps to create a welcoming environment for the arrival of the little one. Find here complete list of items needed for birth.

It's also important to establish a birth plan and discuss the options available with your doctor so that you feel prepared and confident for the magical moment of meeting your baby.

Welcome baby: signs of baby's arrival

As the time of birth approaches, your body will begin to give signals that it is ready to deliver the baby. These signs can include regular and painful contractions, leakage of amniotic fluid, loss of mucus plugs and other changes in your body. Look out for these signs and contact your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

The joy of birth: natural birth or caesarean section

The joy of birth is a unique and memorable moment in a family's life, no matter how it happens. Natural childbirth and caesarean birth are two ways in which the little one comes into the world, each with its own characteristics and circumstances.

Natural childbirth is the process where the baby is delivered through the vaginal canal, and this process can be a wonderful and exciting one, accompanied by the intimate connection between mother and baby and a quicker post-birth recovery. However, natural childbirth can also involve intense pain and complications may arise that require medical intervention.

On the other hand, caesarean birth is a surgical procedure in which the baby is extracted from the mother's abdomen through an incision. This method may be necessary in certain situations, such as complications during natural childbirth or the difficult position of the foetus. Although recovery after a caesarean section can be longer and more difficult than after a natural birth, it can be a safe and necessary option for achieving a healthy birth for both mother and baby.

Regardless of the modality chosen or recommended by doctors, it is important that future mothers are informed and have confidence in their decision and in the medical team assisting them. Every birth is a unique and special experience, and the most important thing is to ensure that both mother and baby are safe and healthy. So, whichever route is chosen, the joy of birth remains just as intense and emotional for all involved.

Baby welcome: First days with baby

The baby has arrived, and the first days with him are full of excitement, joy and, of course, challenges. For many parents, these moments are full of discovery and adjustment, and creating a safe and welcoming environment for the little one becomes the top priority.

Once your baby is at home, it is essential to focus on his basic needs, baby needs a lot of attention and gentle care. Make sure you feed him on demand, change his nappies every 2-3 hours and lay him on his back to sleep in a safe bed with no objects that might prevent him from breathing. It's important to be prepared for an unpredictable schedule, as babies may have different needs at different times of the day and night.

In addition, it is essential to establish a routine and adjust to your new life as a parent. Creating a stable schedule can help manage stress and establish a comforting environment for your baby. At the same time, make sure you allow enough time for rest and relaxation, as caring for a newborn can be physically and emotionally exhausting.

In addition to meeting your baby's basic needs, it is important to build a deep and loving bond with your baby. Affectionate interaction, cuddling and non-verbal communication contribute to the development of the relationship between you and your baby. There is no fixed rule for being a perfect parent, but giving unconditional love, affection and support are essential things you can offer your baby.

Finally, don't forget to ask for help when you need it. Whether it's your partner, family or close friends, it's important to have a strong support system to help you through this time. Don't hesitate to ask for advice or share your concerns with those around you, as being a parent is an experience you live with your loved ones.

Welcome baby: breastfeeding recommendations

Breastfeeding offers many benefits for both mother and baby. Try breastfeeding your baby immediately after birth to stimulate milk production and start a regular breastfeeding schedule. If you have any difficulties, don't hesitate to ask a lactation consultant.

Every birth is a unique and wonderful experience, and preparation and information are key to feeling confident and prepared on this journey. With love, patience and the right support, you will successfully face the challenges and joys of being a mother. Welcome, little one!