A baby may come unannounced, so it is important to get ready

As you approach your due date, it is important to prepare for the arrival of your baby. The following are advised:

1. Eat fruits and vegetables, and ensure regular toileting: this reduces the poo that you may pass while pushing out the baby, makes delivery less messy and reduces the chance of infecting your baby
2. Visit your doctor for a review of your antenatal record so that necessary provisions are made as required e.g. hepatitis immunoglobulin (for hepatitis positive women), Rhogam (for a mother when rhesus discordance is anticipated)
3. Visit your doctor also for a pelvic assessment especially if it’s your first attempt at vaginal birth. The pelvic assessment is to assess the space in your private part. During the visit, the doctor will also estimate your baby’s weight and compare with the space.
4. Pack a ready-to-go bag in case labour set in. The bag should contain among other things;
   1. Baby cloth
   2. Baby oil and comb
   3. At least 3 clean wrappers
   4. Disposable pants for mother
   5. Sanitary pads
   6. Cotton wool, methylated spirit, antiseptics etc
   7. Other items as recommended by your care centre
5. Others
   1. Get your baby cot ready
   2. Install a baby car seat
   3. Arrange for an extra hand to help with domestic work after delivery
   4. Have your hospital or midwife’s phone number stored on speed dial on your phone
   5. Arrange for standby transportation
   6. There are childbirth exercises that can make delivery easy, consult your doctor for any recommendation