Hello dear expectant mothers and fathers,
To help you enjoy the final weeks of pregnancy in a relaxed and well-prepared manner, we've created a list of 23 important things you should do before the birth. This checklist will help you stay organized and ensure nothing is forgotten. Don't worry, not everything needs to be done immediately. The checklist is designed to help you be organized and stress-free as you prepare for the arrival of your little miracle.
23 things you should prepare before the birth
- Writing a birth plan: A birth plan helps you to record your wishes and expectations.
- Packing your hospital bag: Prepare a bag with clothes for you and your baby, hygiene items, and important documents.
- Washing baby clothes: Wash all new baby clothes with baby-friendly detergent to remove harmful substances.
- Buying diapers: Buy a supply of diapers in different sizes. It's best not to buy too many newborn diapers, as babies grow out of them very quickly.
- Gather breastfeeding supplies: Prepare breastfeeding pillows, nursing pads, and comfortable breastfeeding bras.
- Attend a childbirth preparation course: A childbirth preparation course is highly recommended, as you will gain valuable knowledge about childbirth, birthing positions, and breathing techniques. You can also connect with other pregnant women and get tips on breastfeeding and the postpartum period. An ideal time to start is around the 25th week of pregnancy.
- Installing a child car seat: Install the child car seat in the car and check its safety.
- Applying for maternity benefits: You are legally entitled to maternity leave and can receive maternity pay six weeks before your expected due date and eight weeks after the birth. Inform your employer and health insurance provider in good time and submit an application for maternity benefits; different guidelines apply to the self-employed and the unemployed, which you can find in our article on maternity pay.
- Sterilize baby bottles: Sterilizes baby bottles and pacifiers for first use.
- First aid kit for babies: Puts together a first aid kit with a baby thermometer, nasal aspirator and wound cream.
- Pre-cook meals: Prepare and freeze meals to have more time for cuddling during the postpartum period.
- Finding and registering for a birth location: Choosing your birth location—whether hospital, birthing center, or home birth—should be done early, as demand is high and spaces are limited. Register at your preferred hospital no later than the 30th week of pregnancy, and if you wish to store or donate umbilical cord blood, arrange this before the birth as well.
- Childcare plan for siblings or pets: Organize the care of your children or pets during the birth.
- Create contact list: Creates a list of important phone numbers for emergencies.
- Plan several dates: Once the baby arrives, it will be harder for you as a couple to find time for each other. Therefore, use the pregnancy to your advantage and spend plenty of quality time together.
- Set up a changing station: Set up a changing station with diapers, wipes, creams and a diaper pail.
- Stock up your home medicine cabinet: Replenish your home medicine cabinet with medications and care products for mother and baby.
- Planning parental leave: Plan your parental leave and inform your employer.
- Get things you need for the trip: A good stroller, a comfortable baby carrier and a practical diaper bag are essential to be well prepared on the go and to retain some freedom even after the birth.
- Finalize your name selection: Make a final decision on a name for your baby.
- Finding a daycare place or childminder: It's advisable to organize childcare during pregnancy, even if you or your partner are taking parental leave for the initial period. Many daycare centers and childminders have waiting lists, especially in large cities. Find out about the availability of your preferred facility or childminder for your planned start date well in advance.
- Manage your visitor list: Discuss with your friends and family in advance when you would like to start receiving visitors after the birth. This will help you avoid misunderstandings and feeling overwhelmed by too many visitors.
- Enjoy the anticipation: Take time for yourselves as a couple and enjoy the anticipation of your baby.
