The birth of your child is one of the most monumental events you will experience as a parent. While the occasion is undoubtedly a joyous one, it is natural to feel anxious in the build-up to your labour date, especially if this is your first child. After all, going into labour and giving birth is often considered an arduous process.
However, overwhelming anxiety may lead to poorer outcomes for the mother and baby. Therefore, it is crucial for you to remain composed as you count down to the big day. If the prospect of labour seems overwhelming, we are here to assure you that help is on the way!
Let our experienced confinement nannies share how you can mentally and physically prepare for labour. When you are better prepared, you will have an easier experience with the process, thereby reducing your anxiety. Read on to discover the handy tips we have compiled to help you get ready for childbirth.
Tip #1: Don’t forget to exercise
It is natural for expecting mums to be wary about being physically active for fear of harming their bundle of joy. While high-intensity exercises are generally not recommended, pregnant mums are still encouraged to engage in light exercises to prepare their bodies for childbirth. If you are unsure which activities are suited for you, it is advisable to consult your gynaecologist.
Tip #2: Learn to manage your stress and relax
As an expecting mum, you will undoubtedly place a significant emphasis on the well-being of your unborn child. However, it is essential for you not to neglect your health as well. Self-care is just as important as caring for your little bundle of joy.
In addition to eating healthily and getting sufficient rest, it is essential for you to remain relaxed and composed throughout the pregnancy. This is because emotional stress can affect the development of the baby. Hence, you may want to identify your stress triggers and find ways to avoid them.
Another excellent piece of advice that our confinement nannies suggest is to sign up for antenatal classes. These classes are conducted by experienced instructors who can demonstrate breathing and relaxation techniques to help you lower your anxiety and remain calm.
Tip #3: Sign up for childbirth preparation courses
The best thing you can do as parents-to-be is to sign up for a childbirth preparation course. Often, anxiety is caused by a fear of the unknown. By educating yourself on what to expect during the labour process, you remove the element of surprise, which can help to alleviate any concerns you may have.
Furthermore, these classes typically cover the multiple labour positions and the benefits each position provides. By learning and practising these different positions beforehand, you have a better idea of the ideal labour position for you, ensuring a more comfortable delivery of your baby.
At Super Nanny Services, we work with our affiliate partner, Mother and Child Wellness, to offer informative childbirth preparation courses conducted by trained and experienced instructors who can guide you and your partner through what to expect during pregnancy.
Tip #4: Don’t be afraid to seek emotional support
The emotional support of your partner can go a long way to reducing the stress you feel during pregnancy, so don’t be afraid to seek help from your spouse when you are feeling overwhelmed. While you may be carrying the child, the father can still contribute significantly by reading books and participating in antenatal classes.
Additionally, you can consider hiring a stay-in nanny to take care of you during the pregnancy. While confinement nannies are typically hired after the mum has given birth, you may find having one around to be beneficial since your partner may not always be available when you need help.
Things can begin to happen quickly once you arrive at the hospital for childbirth. As such, it is essential for you to prepare yourself as best as you can. Even though you can’t prepare for every possibility, these steps you take can ensure everything goes more smoothly.
Super Nanny Services is one of the best confinement nanny agencies in Singapore. Our confinement nannies are well-trained and possess years of experience in the industry. As such, you can rest easy knowing you and your baby are in safe hands when you engage our nanny services. If you are interested to learn more about our confinement services, do not hesitate to contact us today!