The most beautiful day of your life is approaching. It's normal to feel a little nervous and anxious, along with the excitement of holding your baby. Especially if this is your first baby, you may have many questions in your mind, such as "What will happen now?", "What should I do?", "What will happen when I go to the hospital?". The best solution to all of this is to be well-informed and prepared. The most important thing is to discuss all your questions and doubts with your doctor .
Things to ask your doctor before giving birth
As the due date approaches, don't forget to ask your doctor these questions during your regular clinic visit. Knowing these in advance can help you avoid unnecessary anxiety. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Question to ask | Why is this important? |
|---|---|
| When should I go to the hospital? | This is very important. Sometimes you don't need to panic and rush to the hospital because of false labor. Ask your doctor about the exact signs of labor pains, such as the time between contractions and your water breaking . Then you can go to the hospital at the right time. |
| How long after entering the hospital can I see the doctor? | Knowing what happens after you enter the hospital will give you a lot of peace of mind. It's good to know when the doctor will come to see you and what the nurses will be doing beforehand. |
| If I make a birth plan, will that be allowed? | Some mothers like to make a plan about how they will deliver their baby, whether they will need pain medication, etc. This is called a 'Birth Plan'. Ask your hospital ahead of time to see how much this is allowed under their policy. But remember, sometimes these plans can change in emergencies. |
| How often do you do vaginal exams during menstruation? | These tests are needed to check for cervical dilation, but knowing how often you will have them can help you prepare mentally. |
| Are you allowed to bathe or wash your body during labor? | A hot bath can sometimes help reduce pain. Check with your hospital to see if this is available and allowed. Some hospitals even have facilities for water births. |
| How many people can be in the labor room with me? How many people can be in the room if I am having a cesarean delivery? | This is a policy that varies from hospital to hospital. Find out in advance whether your favorite person, such as your husband or mother, will be able to be with you. During a cesarean section, no one is usually allowed inside. But it's good to know the policies. |
| Do you give food and drink during the rainy season? | Some hospitals only allow liquids during labor, while others allow light meals. Often, feeding is stopped in case an emergency cesarean section is required. Ask about this in advance. |
| Will my husband/partner be allowed to cut the baby's umbilical cord? | This is something that many fathers look forward to. Not all hospitals allow this, but talk to your doctor about it. |
| How long will I and the baby have to stay in the hospital after the baby is born? | You will usually have to stay for one or two days for a vaginal delivery and three or four days for a cesarean section. However, if there are no complications for you or your baby, ask if you can go home earlier. |
Remember, there are no stupid questions. Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about anything you have in mind, any doubts you may have. The more you become aware of neken, the less afraid you will be.
Things you need to prepare on your part
In addition to asking questions of your doctor, there are a few things you need to prepare on your part. Don't leave these until the last minute. Plan them in advance.
Transportation
When the illness starts, do you have someone who can take you to the hospital at any time of the day? It could be your husband, a brother, or a trusted neighbor. It is also very important to have a phone number of a trusted three-wheeler driver who you can call in an emergency. Discuss this with that person in advance. Keep in mind not only the main route to the hospital, but also an alternate route .
Taking care of other children at home
If you have other children, arrange in advance for someone to look after them while you go to the hospital. Call your mother, aunt, or a trusted neighbor to let them know. This will save you from last-minute panic.
Work and Maternity Leave
If you are employed, discuss your maternity leave with your employer in advance and complete the necessary paperwork. This will allow you to spend this time freely and without any stress.
Take-Home Message
- Preparation is the most important thing: Write down all the questions and doubts you have before giving birth. Ask the doctor at least a few of them each time you go to the clinic.
- Talk openly: Talk openly about your fears and hopes with your doctor and your family. This will give you a lot of mental strength.
- Plan practical things: Plan ahead for things like a ride to the hospital and someone to look after the other children.
- Be Flexible: Sometimes things don't go as planned. Childbirth is an unpredictable process. So, if your plans change, don't panic and follow your doctor's instructions.
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