Below is a breakdown of what I did in each trimester to prepare to give birth. What I did in one trimester, I continued into the next.
First Trimester
- Watch birthing class videos
- Yoga, stretch, exercise
- Discuss expectations and any questions with our doctor
Second Trimester
- Attend physical therapy
- Meditate daily while listening to affirmations
- Watch videos on how to prepare for birth and what things I should know about the experience
- Research medical interventions, medicines, newborn routines, etc.
- Find a pediatrician for our baby
Third Trimester
- Watch birthing videos
- Prepare a birth plan and review it with our doctor
- Prepare our hospital bags
- Visit our hospital – for a tour, to ask questions, complete any necessary documents, learn about routines and more
- Eat 4-6 medjool dates daily
- Drink 1-2 cups of raspberry leaf tea and okra water (okra, frozen mixed berries, lemon, and water) daily
This journey can be isolating as well as be physically and/or mentally draining, so having someone by your side goes a long way! It was very important for me to do as many of these as I could with my partner. Not only did I feel supported, I felt confident that my partner knew what to expect. For instance, my partner and I reviewed our birth plan together then we discussed it with our doctor. I knew that I could rely on my partner to speak on my behalf during labor and delivery. Not to mention, he knew how to handle certain situations from watching birthing videos and how to help me feel more comfortable because we practiced beforehand.
Hopefully this helps you with your preparation for giving birth. I wish you a healthy labor and delivery, quick recovery, and happy baby! This experience is unlike any other and you won’t forget it!
