Just had my first baby. I know i found mn really useful when waiting for child birth. So thought it would be good to pass on handy practical advise to all those who are waiting. Some may seem silly, but worked for me. Hope it helps all expectant mothers and gives them some coping mechanisms for the first week - which is hard work!
- Take some nice body spray for 'downstairs' as the lochia smell (if that's what it's called) makes you feel rubbish. I used 'out and about' spray which has lavendar, tea tree, aloe vera... from the nappy lady website. Sure it made my tear heal a lot quicker. I sprayed some in a jug of water and doused myself when i went to the loo. I also sprayed it directly on me. Worked a treat. Could use other natural sprays. Makes such a difference to feeling fresh and less 'ill'.
- Buy some Arnica to reduce the bruising after you've given birth. Hopefully will make you recover quicker.
- If you have carrier bags of stuff in your birthing bag, like i did, use different shop bags for each thing. e.g. baby stuff in a 'tesco' bag, and your labour stuff in a 'boots' bag. Sounds daft but it makes it a lot easier for your partner to find when you can't be arsed explaining where stuff is in the throws of labour!
- To remember which breast i fed off last i wear an elasticated bracelet and swap it from each wrist. (just remember your method as i confused myself at first - did i move it before or after i did that breast?!! worked it out in the end.) Some woman put stickers on their busoms or tie thread onto the bra side they fed off last.
- Use lansinoh cream when first breast feeding. I found it a god send. Only need to put it on the parts which hurt (as expensive).
I know i've forgotten the other stuff i thought of - but hope these help.