I'm a list kind of gal.
I makes lists. I make lists of lists.
So, it makes sense that I would make a list of things to do once labor appears to get started. Assuming, of course, that this labor goes a little slower than the last one. Last time, I had a huge list and we barely got around to getting out the birth supplies, it went so fast. Not that I want it to be longer, but you never know.
Here are some things on my to-do list once it appears that early labor has started:
The practical:
- call the Midwife!
- get out birth supply box
- prepare the bed (for homebirth, it's recommended to layer the bed coverings - a bottom layer of sheets for post birth, then a layer of plastic sheeting, the a top layer of a fitted sheet that can get messy.)
- log on to contractionmaster.com Or use the app on the ipad.
- Turn up the waterheater
- Turn up the house heat
- mix labor-aid drink
- make sure there's clean space on a dresser or table for midwife equipment
- set out mama and baby clothes
- charge the phones and cameras
- turn on some music - I have a labor playlist ready. Yes, it does have Enya, but I like Enya.
- have Jude play guitar
- take a nap
- bake a "birthday" cake w/ the kids
- take a shower
- go for a walk
- bake bread
- thaw out some "mama juice" (A tasty beverage for nursing mamas. Nice alternative to water)
- do something crafty
- perineal massage
Reminders during labor:
- Drink fluids! (dehydration can lead to a slower labor and a tired mama)
- Pee every hour (a full bladder can also slow down labor)
- Change positions (again, with the slowing down labor by staying too still)
- Take pictures! If we don't like them, we can delete them later!
I have no idea if I'll even get to anything on the fun list. It totally depends on how labor goes, but having it written out cements it in my brain a bit more. And, if Jude asks what he can do to help, I can point him to this page in the binder.
What kind of preparations do you make when it appears that labor has started?
What kind of preparations do you make when it appears that labor has started?
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