Are you about to give birth? Now's the time to stock up on tips to ensure your stay in the maternity ward goes as smoothly as possible. We've put together 8 ideas to help you make these few, timeless days a gentle, serene interlude.
1. Visiting the maternity ward during pregnancy
You're pregnant with your first child, or you're planning to give birth in an unfamiliar facility.
Visiting the environment in which you and your baby will spend your first days is often reassuring. You'll be able to project yourself into it, and think about what might bring you comfort and help you feel at ease during those first few days.
Don't hesitate to ask questions about the organization and habits of the department. There's no such thing as a stupid or superficial request. For example, in some maternity units, newborns are bathed in a collective nursery, while others have a bathtub in every room. On the other hand, you may want to wait several days before your baby's first bath. This request can be made in advance.
Whatever the case, just ask!
2. Sharing the stay with your partner
If your maternity hospital allows spouses to sleep on the premises, their presence, especially at night, will be a great help. Moms can get the blues early in the evening, as night approaches. Unfortunately, that's when visiting hours come to an end. When the co-parent sleeps with you, he or she can support you and look after bébé. Start-ups go much more smoothly! With the tiredness and hesitations of young parents, yelling is not out of the question, but neither is laughter! In any case, these are unique moments to share.
3. Limit visits
As much as you'd like to show off the little marvel you've just brought into the world, try to limit your visits to those closest to you. This way, you can manage your time according to your needs and those of your baby, without constraints. This will also enable you to get to grips with post-partum problems such as heavy pads, milk let-down, episiotomy or caesarean section after-effects, etc. If you're breast-feeding, you'll be able to familiarize yourself with latching on calmly, with the help of the midwives, without being constantly disturbed. This can be stressful, especially when you're breastfeeding for the first time. Last but not least, you won't feel obliged to look "presentable", which will lighten your mental load!
4. Bring comfort food
Sushi delivery boys are regulars at maternity wards! Between pregnancy restrictions and the not-always-appetizing hospital meal trays, you'll be delighted to have food you love available. Now's the time to indulge in your favorites. This will be good for both your morale and your physical recovery. Don't forget your drinks, and a kettle if you're a tea and herbal tea fan. A little tip: keep the cutlery on your tray so you can eat whenever you like!
5. Keep busy during your stay in the maternity ward
Mornings are punctuated by the presence of nurses. Afternoons and evenings are often quieter. You'll spend a lot of time admiring your baby or resting, but you may need some distraction. Anticipate these moments: series on a tablet or computer, books, a notebook for writing... It's up to you to make your choice according to your preferences, always bearing in mind to take care of yourself as much as possible. Don't forget your headphones - they can be very useful!
6. Make yourself at home
A hospital room is cold and impersonal. If there's one moment when you want to feel at home, it's during your stay in the maternity ward. Accessories can help:
- A nightlight to provide less harsh lighting, especially in the evening and at night.
- Your own pillow and possibly bed linen.
- Photos that mean a lot to you.
- Your favorite cosmetics to pamper yourself.
- Slippers for walking around the ward.
- Soft, comfortable clothes.
- As mentioned above, a kettle if you're a tea and herbal tea lover.
- A mini speaker if you're alone in your room.
In short, anything that will contribute to your well-being!
7. Assert your choices
Even if you're surrounded by caring caregivers, you may have wishes for your baby and for yourself, and have the right to formulate your own decisions. Whether it's about breastfeeding or mothering, it's your choice for your baby! On the other hand, with fatigue and falling hormones, you may find it difficult to assert yourself. Don't hesitate to write a plan in advance and share it with your partner, who can act as your spokesperson!
8. Building your post-pregnancy team
During pregnancy, find out about specialists to contact after the birth. Lactation consultants, midwives, osteopaths, psychologists - there are many professionals who can help you with perinatal issues. You can meet them beforehand and ask them when and in what cases they can be contacted. Leave for the maternity ward with a strong team! Knowing who to call if you have any questions is very reassuring.
With all these tips for your stay in the maternity ward, don't forget to pack your maternity suitcase. To guide you, here's our in this article.
We wish you a wonderful encounter with your baby!