Top 10 Things Every Pregnant Woman Should Do Before Delivery

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but as the due date gets closer, it can bring both excitement and nervousness. Being prepared in advance makes sure that everything goes smoothly and helps in a stress-free transition to motherhood. From medical checkups to emotional well-being, there are many important things to do before the baby arrives.

This guide will help you understand the top 10 things every pregnant woman should do before delivery to be fully prepared.

Make a Birth Plan

A birth plan is a document that helps a pregnant woman share her choices with the doctor and medical staff. It ensures that her delivery happens the way she wants.

What to Include in a Birth Plan?

Preferred delivery method (natural birth, C-section)

Pain relief options (epidural, breathing techniques)

People who should be present in the delivery room

Preferences for baby care (breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact)

Special requests (calm environment, dim lighting)

Having a birth plan helps in avoiding confusion and ensures a comfortable experience.

Pack a Hospital Bag Early

It is best to pack a hospital bag by the 36th week of pregnancy to avoid any last-minute rush.

What to Pack?

For the Mother:

Comfortable clothes

Nursing bras and maternity pads

Toiletries (toothbrush, face wipes, moisturizer)

Important documents (ID, insurance, medical records)

For the Baby:

Soft baby clothes

Blankets and wraps

Diapers and wipes

Packing in advance ensures that everything is ready when labor starts.

Attend Childbirth and Parenting Classes

For first-time mothers, attending childbirth classes helps in learning about labor and baby care.

What Will You Learn?

Stages of labor and delivery

Pain management techniques (breathing, meditation, medicines)

How to take care of a newborn

Post-delivery recovery tips

These classes boost confidence and prepare mothers for childbirth and newborn care.

Set Up the Nursery and Baby Essentials

It is important to set up the baby's room and arrange all the necessary items before delivery.

Baby Room Checklist:

Crib or bassinet with a soft mattress

Diapers, wipes, baby lotion

Feeding bottles and a sterilizer

Soft blankets and newborn clothes

Setting up the nursery early helps new mothers focus on resting and recovering after birth.

Go for the Final Prenatal Checkup

In the last few weeks of pregnancy, frequent doctor visits are necessary to ensure both the mother and baby are healthy.

What Happens in the Final Checkup?

Ultrasound to check the baby’s position

Blood pressure monitoring

Gestational diabetes test

Cervix check to see if labor is near

Doctors also give important instructions for labor and recovery.

Plan for Post-Delivery Recovery

Recovering from childbirth takes time, and preparing in advance makes it easier.

Things to Keep Ready:

Loose, comfortable clothes

Maternity pads for bleeding after birth

Pain relief items (ice packs, warm baths)

Healthy snacks and plenty of water

Getting these things ready will make the first few weeks after delivery more comfortable.

Arrange for Help and Support

After delivery, new mothers need help so they can focus on resting and taking care of their baby.

Ways to Get Help:

Ask family members to help with household work

Hire a nanny or postpartum doula for baby care

Arrange easy meal plans or home delivery services

Getting help reduces stress and allows new mothers to recover properly.

Do Gentle Exercises and Relaxation Techniques

Staying active during pregnancy helps with easier labor and delivery.

Best Prenatal Exercises:

Walking – keeps the body strong

Yoga – reduces stress and strengthens muscles

Swimming – eases body pain

Pelvic tilts – prepare the body for labor

Along with exercise, meditation and deep breathing help in reducing anxiety and staying calm.

Keep Emergency Contacts Ready

In case of an emergency, having important contacts saved is helpful.

Doctor’s number – for urgent medical advice

Hospital emergency contact – for quick admission

Family and friends – for support and help

Pediatrician’s number – for baby’s first checkup

Writing down these contacts and saving them in the phone helps in case of an urgent situation.

Wear Comfortable and Protective Accessories

During pregnancy, many women wear special accessories for emotional strength and protection. Some prefer a Pregnancy Bracelet, which is believed to bring positivity and comfort.

Wearing something meaningful can make the journey even more special.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When should I start preparing for delivery?

It is best to start getting ready by the third trimester so that everything is set before the baby arrives.

2. What foods help with an easy delivery?

Eating protein-rich foods, fresh fruits, and drinking enough water helps in keeping energy levels high during labor.

3. Can I exercise in my last trimester?

Yes, but only light exercises like walking and stretching. Always consult a doctor before starting any exercise.

4. How can I reduce stress before delivery?

Practicing deep breathing, meditation, and talking to loved ones can help in reducing stress and staying calm.

5. What are the early signs of labor?

Some signs include:

Strong contractions that become more frequent

Water breaking

Lower back pain

Increase in vaginal discharge

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy is a special time, and preparing in advance ensures that everything goes smoothly. By following these top 10 tips, expecting mothers can feel ready and confident before their baby arrives.