But here’s the thing: labour doesn’t always start the way the movies show it. No dramatic gasp in the grocery store, no mad dash to the hospital after your water suddenly breaks. Often, your body gives you quiet little whispers that your baby’s debut is near — and I’m here, as a mama who’s gone through it twice, to share them with you.

So let’s walk through this timeline together from a few weeks out to those exciting final hours so you can feel calm, prepared, and a little giddy about what’s coming next.

2–4 Weeks Before Labour: The Early Hints

1. Your Baby “Drops” Into Position

One day you might realise your belly looks a little lower. That’s your baby settling into your pelvis, we call it lightening. You might breathe easier (hello, more lung space!), but you’ll also find yourself visiting the bathroom more than you thought humanly possible. With my first baby, I remember thinking, “Oh, this is it!”… but she still took her sweet time arriving.

2. Braxton Hicks Contractions Feel More Noticeable

These little “practice contractions” are like your uterus doing warm-up stretches. They’re usually irregular and go away if you rest or drink water. In my second pregnancy, I had them almost every evening for weeks. It was like my body’s nightly reminder that something big was coming.

1–2 Weeks Before Labour: Nesting & Body Changes

3. The Nesting Instinct Hits Hard

If you suddenly feel like reorganising your pantry at midnight or folding tiny onesies for the fifth time, welcome to nesting. It’s this burst of energy that almost feels magical your way of preparing the perfect space for your little one.

4. Loose Joints and Backache

Your body’s producing relaxin, a hormone that loosens ligaments in your pelvis so your baby can pass through more easily. The downside? Your hips might ache, your walk might get wobblier, and turning in bed might feel like a slow-motion sport.

A Few Days Before Labour: The Signs Get Stronger

5. Losing Your Mucus Plug

This jelly-like plug has been sealing your cervix all pregnancy to keep bacteria out. As your cervix starts to soften and open, it comes out either in one piece or little bits over days. It’s completely normal and just another sign your body is making room for your baby.

6. Stomach Upset or Diarrhoea

Not the most glamorous part, but your digestive system may “clear out” before labour. It’s your body’s way of making sure there’s nothing in the way when the time comes.

Within 24–48 Hours: The Countdown is Real

7. The Bloody Show

A small amount of pink or brown mucus means your cervix is opening more. I remember seeing it with my second baby and thinking, “Okay, we’re really close now.”

8. Heavier Pelvic Pressure & Backache

Your baby’s head presses down so low you might feel like you’re carrying a bowling ball between your legs. Even sitting can feel different at this stage everything feels ready.

Hours Before Labour: The Big Moment

9. Your Water Breaks

Sometimes it’s a gush, sometimes it’s a trickle and sometimes it doesn’t happen until you’re well into contractions. Either way, it’s one of those oh wow moments where you know things are moving fast.

10. Contractions That Don’t Let Up

Real labour contractions are strong, rhythmic, and they get closer together no matter what you do. When they take your breath away and you can’t talk through them, you know you’re about to meet your baby.

Mama, you’ve got this.
Every twinge, every ache, every exciting sign is your body’s way of telling you: “We’re almost there.” The wait may have felt endless, but soon you’ll hold that little bundle you’ve been dreaming about for nine whole months and all the discomfort will fade into the background the moment you hear that first cry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Signs of Labour

Q1: Can labour start without losing the mucus plug?
Yes! Some mamas never notice when they lose it, and labour still starts just fine. It can also come out during active labour, so don’t panic if you haven’t seen it yet.

Q2: How do I know if it’s real labour or just Braxton Hicks?
Real labour contractions get stronger, last longer, and come closer together and they don’t stop when you rest or drink water. Braxton Hicks are usually irregular and fade away with a change in activity.

Q3: What should I do if my water breaks first?
Call your healthcare provider, even if contractions haven’t started yet. Sometimes labour kicks in right away, and sometimes it takes a few hours. Either way, they’ll guide you on when to head in.

Q4: Is it normal to feel emotional before labour?
Absolutely. Those final days are a mix of excitement, nervousness, and impatience. Your hormones are shifting, and you’re about to meet your baby .It’s a lot! Be gentle with yourself.

Q5: Should I rush to the hospital as soon as I notice signs?
Not necessarily. Most providers suggest the “5-1-1” rule for first-time mamas: contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. But if you’re unsure or feel uneasy, call your provider anytime.

The post 10 Unexpected Signs Labour is Closer Than You Think (From One Mama to Another) appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.

So let me make this easier for you.

This isn’t just another hospital bag checklist — this is the one I wish I had when I was expecting my first, second, and even third. It’s simple, it’s mama-tested, and it covers the real essentials — for you, your baby, and your partner — without the clutter. Because honestly? You don’t need everything. You just need the right things. And I’m so excited for you, because your baby — the one you’ve waited so long for — is almost here. Let’s get you packed and ready to meet them.

What Mama Really Needs: Comfort, Care & Confidence

Mama, this part is all about you. Yes — you, the one who’s grown this little miracle for the past nine months. As much as the focus quickly shifts to the baby (and rightfully so!), your comfort and peace of mind matter just as much — especially during labor and those first few hours after birth.

Here are the true essentials that will help you feel a little more at home, a little more in control, and a lot more cared for:

• Comfortable nightgown or maternity robe – Something soft and easy to nurse in, if you plan to breastfeed. Bonus if it makes you feel a bit cute, too!

• Nursing bra & high-waisted underwear – Trust me, comfort is key. Go for stretchy, breathable fabrics.

• Maternity pads or adult diapers – The hospital may provide some, but having your own preferred brand can make all the difference.

• Toiletries that feel like you – Think face wash, lip balm, a small moisturizer, maybe even a travel-size dry shampoo. A little freshness can lift your mood more than you expect.

• Phone + long charging cable – You’ll be updating family, snapping baby’s first photos, or maybe just listening to your favorite surah or playlist while you rest.

• Snacks you love – After labor, you’ll be hungry. Pack a few of your favorite treats or easy-to-eat energy bars.

• Going-home outfit – Choose something comfy, loose-fitting, and easy to slip on. Your body will still be in recovery mode — give it grace.

You don’t need to overpack, mama. Think of this as your little comfort kit — a way to nurture yourself as you step into this incredible next chapter. You’ve carried this baby with love. Now, let’s care for you, too.

Tiny But Mighty: Essentials for Your Newborn Baby

Now let’s talk about your little bundle — the one who’s been growing, hiccupping, and flipping inside you all these months. Packing for your baby can feel so special, like you’re finally preparing to meet the person you’ve been dreaming of. But here’s a gentle reminder: babies don’t need much at the beginning — just warmth, comfort, and you.

Here’s what I’ve learned to pack after bringing two little ones into the world:

• 2–3 Newborn onesies or sleepers – Choose soft, easy-to-snap outfits. Zippers are your best friend in those early diaper changes!

• A cozy swaddle or baby blanket – Hospitals can be chilly. Bring something warm, soft, and familiar.

• Newborn diapers & wipes – Some hospitals provide these, but I always packed a few of my own just in case.

• Mittens, socks, and a tiny hat – Their skin is delicate, and babies lose heat quickly. These little pieces help keep them snug.

• Burp cloths or muslin squares – Spit-ups happen. These are lifesavers.

• Going-home outfit – Pick something adorable, but practical too (easy to change, weather-appropriate, and comfy).

• Car seat (installed and ready to go) – Most hospitals won’t let you leave without it. Make sure it’s set up ahead of time

Don’t Forget Dad (or Your Birth Partner!)

In the swirl of preparing for baby’s arrival, it’s easy to forget that your partner needs a few essentials too — especially if they’ll be staying with you at the hospital. They’re your support system, your hand-holder, your snack-fetcher, and maybe even your photographer when those first magical moments happen. A little preparation for them goes a long way.

Here’s what I lovingly pack (or remind my husband to pack!) every time:

• • Change of clothes (or two!) – Something comfy for sleeping, and maybe a fresh shirt for going home.

  • Toiletries – Toothbrush, deodorant, face wash — trust me, everyone feels better after freshening up.

  • Snacks & water bottle – Labor can be long. Having their own stash of food keeps them energized (and out of your snack bag!).

  • Phone & charger – So they can take photos, update family, and set alarms for diaper duty later on.

  • Cash or card – Just in case they need to grab coffee, parking, or anything you forgot.

  • A small pillow or blanket – Hospital chairs aren’t known for comfort, and a little coziness goes a long way.

The “Nice to Have” Extras That Can Make a Big Difference

While the essentials are all you really need, there are a few little extras that aren’t must-haves — but can bring so much comfort, ease, or even a touch of joy in those unforgettable hours at the hospital.

As a mom who’s done this more than once, these are the thoughtful additions I’ve packed over the years that made my experience just a little more peaceful, a little more me:

• • • Your own pillow or blanket – Hospital pillows are… well, not home. Having something that smells like your bed can help you rest better.

    • Essential oils or a calming room spray – If you’ve used them during pregnancy, they can bring a familiar, grounding feeling during labor.

    • Bluetooth speaker or headphones – Soft recitations, soothing duas, or your favorite playlist can truly change the atmosphere of the room.

    • Small journal or notebook – Jotting down birth details, your baby’s first moments, or even a quick dua can turn into memories you’ll treasure.

    • Lip balm & face mist – Labor can be long and dry! These tiny luxuries can feel like a little spa break in the middle of it all.

    • Extra bag for gifts or hospital freebies – Trust me, you’ll leave with more than you came with.

Last-Minute Tips Before You Zip That Bag Shut

You’re almost there, mama — your bag is packed, your heart is full, and your little one is so close to being in your arms. Before you zip that bag shut and place it by the door (or in the car!), here are a few gentle reminders from one mom to another:

• • • • Pack early, but not too early – Around 35–36 weeks is perfect. It gives you peace of mind without rushing.

      • Keep important documents handy – Your ID, insurance card, and hospital paperwork should go in an outside pocket or a small folder.

      • Label baby’s things – It makes things easier for your partner or the nurses when it’s time to grab that going-home outfit or extra diaper.

      • Double-check the car seat – Make sure it’s installed properly and adjusted for a newborn. It’s one less thing to worry about later.

      • Let your bag reflect you – Whether it’s adding your favorite lip gloss, a small journal, or a photo that brings you comfort — this is your moment. Make it yours.

      • Don’t aim for perfect — aim for peace – No hospital bag is ever packed “perfectly.” And that’s okay. You already have what your baby needs most: you.

The post Hospital Bag Essentials: The Only List You’ll Ever Need appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.

The principle: A few weeks before the birth , the expectant mother celebrates the new baby with her friends. This is a wonderful idea, because once the child is born, other things often take priority.

Who is organizing the baby shower?

This could be a good friend or someone else close to the expectant mother. Of course, an expectant mother can also organize her own baby shower, but it’s customary for her to be cared for and pampered. Whoever takes on the organization should, however, coordinate with the main event organizer regarding the time and location, if necessary.

Where do you celebrate a baby shower?

Usually, it’s just the expectant mother’s home. A garden party is nice in the summer, of course, but the living room will do, too. A loving tradition is to decorate the venue beforehand with baby essentials. A leash with onesie, diapers, pacifiers , wipes—anything you might need for the first few days is allowed; the sky’s the limit.

What is there to eat?

Cakes, muffins, small snacks , or finger food are always appropriate. A baby shower is usually held in the afternoon, and coffee, tea, juices, and perhaps a glass of sparkling wine (not for the pregnant woman, of course) are always appropriate. It’s nice when the “hostess” doesn’t have to take care of everything herself and her dear friends organize the buffet.

What about the supporting program?

Of course, you can just sit together and chat. But many people enjoy little games that fit the occasion:

• Baby Guessing: Each guest brings a baby photo of themselves. The pictures are shuffled, and everyone can guess who is in each photo.
• Baby food tasting: Blindfolded, guests have to taste baby food and guess what flavor the jars are.
• Baby Memory: About 15 baby-related items are placed on a tray, including pacifiers, bottles, socks, diapers, etc.
  The tray is then taken outside, and whoever can freely list the most items wins.
• Don’t say baby!: Guests are allowed to talk about anything except the word “baby.” Anyone who accidentally says it will have to babysit once the baby is born.

What should I give for a baby shower?

The classic is, of course, clothing for the new arrival. But vouchers for the first few weeks with the baby or—if everyone chips in—something larger, like a car seat or high chair, also make great gifts.

The post Great Ideas For The Baby Shower appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.

Numerous fitness studios and adult education courses offer training sessions specifically for pregnant women. Of course, you can also do a lot to improve your fitness during pregnancy without a set course. Here you can find out about the best sports for staying active during pregnancy.

Go for a stroll

We’ve known since childhood that fresh air is good for you. A leisurely stroll isn’t strenuous, is easy on your joints, and gets your circulation going. Exercise in the sun also increases vitamin D production in your body, so you won’t feel blue. A walk through the nearby park is perfectly sufficient.

Longer walks through the forest or along the fields give your eyes a broad perspective, which in turn ensures a clear head and the lush green of your surroundings calms your nerves.

If you’re already in the advanced stages of pregnancy, it’s better to have someone accompany you on your walk. That way, someone will be there immediately if needed. Besides, a little chat in a quiet atmosphere is also nice!

To swim

Your stomach gets heavier by the day, your joints ache, and every step becomes an effort. The swimming pool can provide relief, as it instantly makes your body seem as if it weighs nothing.

You don’t have to swim laps or participate in aquafit. Just relax at the edge of the pool, dangle your legs, and enjoy the “weightlessness.”

Aqua courses

The advantage of exercising in water is that, on the one hand, it protects the joints, and on the other hand, due to the water resistance, it demands more from the muscles than movements on land would.

yoga

This traditional sport is currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity, and rightly so. Yoga combines beneficial exercises for your muscles and tendons with relaxation and proper breathing techniques.

In this way, you train precisely those regions of your body that are particularly affected during pregnancy, such as the pelvic floor, and you can simply leave all your worries and fears behind for a while and instead concentrate fully on what is important.

Workout

Whether in the gym or at home, you don’t have to miss out on many exercises to get your body in shape during pregnancy. There are numerous exercises specifically designed for pregnant women that provide optimal training for the body. Especially the arms, legs, and buttocks are on the training plan during pregnancy.

You don’t have to give up on your weight training if you were already doing weight training before your pregnancy. Just make sure you don’t overexert yourself and stick to lighter weights instead.

Dance

Are you an avid dancer? Then get out on the dance floor! Grab your partner and take that long-awaited dance class, or turn up your favorite music at home and whirl around the house.

It goes without saying that you should avoid pirouettes, jumps, and jerky movements. With the right technique, however, you’ll get your heart and circulation going, and dancing will put you in a good mood anyway!

The post The Best Sports During Pregnancy appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.

In this article we will show you three natural ways without cycle computers and the like.

When are the most fertile days?

According to textbooks, a female cycle lasts about 28 days. Ovulation occurs approximately halfway through this cycle. This period is referred to as the fertile period, as this is when the egg can be fertilized by sperm, resulting in pregnancy .

However, these figures are only guidelines and vary from woman to woman. Not every woman has a regular 28-day cycle, and even if she does, there’s no guarantee that ovulation always occurs on cycle day 14.

With this rule, you can roughly narrow down the fertile days, but you cannot really predict them with any certainty.

How do I recognize my fertile days?

So how can you narrow down your fertile days more precisely than the rule of thumb allows?

For example, by trying one of the following three options. The good news: They all work without artificial hormones or expensive cycle computers.

Detect fertile days with temperature measurement

When measuring your temperature, you observe your body temperature before getting up (basal body temperature) and record it throughout your entire cycle. This principle is also used by many cycle monitors, which indicate whether it is a fertile or non-fertile day based on the temperature.

You can recognize ovulation by the fact that your basal body temperature rises by approximately 0.2°C to 0.5°C for several days. This temperature rise occurs very reliably because ovulation triggers the production of the corpus luteum hormone progesterone, which slightly raises your basal body temperature. It only drops again at the end of your cycle. In the case of pregnancy, it remains slightly elevated for the first few weeks.

The problem with temperature measurement is that you only recognize your fertile days afterward. However, you are already fertile several days before ovulation. Furthermore, basal body temperature is a value that can easily be distorted, for example, by going to bed late or stress. Therefore, it is only moderately recommended when used alone.

Detect fertile days by cervical mucus

Cervical mucus is a secretion produced by the glands in the cervix throughout the menstrual cycle.

• At the beginning of the cycle after the period, it is rather thick and white and this consistency prevents bacteria from penetrating the cervix.
• As the fertile days approach, the cervical mucus becomes clearer and stretchy.
• On the most fertile days, it can be pulled into long threads. This consistency creates ideal conditions for sperm to reach the egg.

So, if you notice runny, stretchy cervical mucus at the cervix, this is a clear sign that your fertile period is approaching. A few days after ovulation, it will return to a whitish, creamy consistency.

This method works very reliably, but not every woman finds it easy to classify cervical mucus. Is it already clear or still whitish? Is it stretchy or not? All of these factors can be confusing and, of course, distort the results.

Detect fertile days with the symptothermal method

The symptothermal method (formerly known as Natural Family Planning – NFP) combines the advantages of both natural methods. This allows you to monitor both the development of your basal body temperature and changes in your cervical mucus, providing two clear signals that indicate when your fertile days are approaching. When used correctly, this method achieves a Pearl Index of 0.4 percent, making it as safe as the pill.

Of the three natural ways to identify your fertile days, this is clearly the safest.

What experiences do you have?

What methods have you tried to identify your fertile days?

Feel free to tell us about it in the comments.

The post 3 Natural Ways To Identify Your Fertile Days appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.

We’ll tell you the three biggest causes of psychological stress during the fertility period and ways to deal with them more easily.

Pressure of expectations when trying to have children

It’s perfectly normal for pregnancy to take a while to become pregnant. If it takes up to a year, doctors usually don’t see any indication that anything is wrong.

But as the one-year mark approaches, or even passes, the pressure of expectations on couples mounts ever more intensely. Impatience and longing are mixed with worry and self-doubt. Many women and men blame themselves because things just aren’t working out.

This self-imposed pressure leads to a negative spiral of dissatisfaction and can, in the long run, lead to rejection of one’s own body, which simply does not do what it is supposed to.

External pressure of expectations from others

But it’s not just you who puts increasing pressure on yourself; your environment also sometimes contributes to the psychological stress that comes with the waiting period, month after month. Especially when friends and family repeatedly ask about the status of things, whether it’s worked yet, or even offer caring, yet overwhelming, tips on what else you could try.

While these tips are certainly not meant to be malicious, they do increase the pressure immensely. The more tips couples with an unfulfilled desire to conceive have on their to-do list, the more likely they are to blame themselves and become trapped in a spiral of negative emotions.

Physical and psychological stress caused by fertility treatment

If a couple undergoes fertility treatment after a long wait or due to a medical indication, it is naturally extremely stressful, both psychologically and physically. Ongoing hormone treatments, constant monitoring, and financial challenges leave their mark on any couple.

Your tips for those affected?

Have you experienced a phase of unfulfilled desire to have children? What helped you?

Feel free to share it with other couples in the comments.

The post Unfulfilled Desire To Have Children: 3 Tips For Dealing With Psychological Stress appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.

And then? To make the 40 weeks until birth as comfortable as possible, we’ve put together a few pregnancy tips .

Today: The first few weeks.

The first third of pregnancy

“What will change in my life with a baby?”, “How will my family react?”, or “When can I talk about the pregnancy?” – these and similar questions trouble many pregnant women. They are often accompanied by a veritable rollercoaster of emotions .

In addition, your hormone balance is also upended. One moment you’re overjoyed, the next you might be crying. It usually helps to talk to your partner or a friend who knows how you feel. A pregnancy diary can also be helpful if you’re not sure what to do with your emotions.

Leaden fatigue & the right diet

Even if your belly is still flat in the first few weeks, your body is changing to prepare for the baby. However, there’s no reason to eat for two. The additional calorie requirement is only 200 kcal. A balanced, healthy, and vitamin-rich diet is perfectly sufficient: Fresh fruit and vegetables should be on your menu every day.

Raw milk products , raw meat, raw fish (e.g., sushi), or ham are not allowed – they can contain dangerous pathogens for the unborn child. Alcohol and cigarettes are also, of course, taboo!

Coffee and black tea are allowed in moderation. Leaden fatigue is nothing to worry about during the first trimester. Your body is working at full speed now so the baby can develop in peace. If possible, just lie down and rest! Or take a short walk in the fresh air, which is invigorating.

The right outfit

First-time mothers usually don’t have any problems finding the right clothes in the first few weeks. However, the belly and breasts are extremely sensitive. Even now, comfortable, stretchy clothing is advisable.

If the smells and impressions on your way to work become too much for you, carry a bottle of an essential oil you like with you and take a quick sniff every now and then.

A really bad thing?

The good news: Morning sickness usually subsides by the second trimester at the latest! And not all pregnant women suffer from it.

If you’re having trouble with this, treat yourself in the morning before you get up. Perhaps your partner can make you some chamomile or ginger tea. Light snacks like rusks or crispbread, almonds, or nuts often relieve the discomfort.

Ginger soothes the stomach lining, and almonds bind stomach acid. Caution! Ginger tea has a mild labor-inducing effect, so it should only be consumed early in pregnancy.

Vitamin B6 can also relieve nausea.

Always take it easy!

Heavy bags, crying siblings, and strenuous housework are now men’s work. You should definitely avoid lifting and carrying heavy loads during the first three months of pregnancy to minimize the risk of miscarriage. As a rule of thumb, leave anything heavier than 5 kg at home!

The post Tips For Pregnancy – The First Trimester appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.

This time is the ultimate challenge for a woman’s body, demanding everything from it. Discomfort, nausea, stomach pain, hot flashes, and water retention are side effects that many mothers probably have to endure in some form or another.

Nevertheless, women can still live a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy and do something good for themselves and their new family member. We explain how.

Nutrition

During pregnancy, expectant mothers are subject to many rules. Raw fish is taboo, as are packaged products, soft and grated cheese, all predatory fish (tuna, etc.), and undercooked meat. Added to this are the well-known prohibitions on alcohol and all foods and beverages containing alcohol.

Pregnant women who go through the list of unsafe foods might get the impression that every dish is harmful. But that’s not true.

For example, experts recommend eating oily fish like mackerel or trout during pregnancy because they contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure you eat a varied diet.

Caution is advised with extreme diets such as veganism. There is a risk of serious harm to yourself and your child. Vegetarians and vegans should definitely seek medical advice.

Be careful when taking medication: Ibuprofen and other non-prescription medications are a staple in every medicine cabinet. Taking medication for everyday ailments is normal for many people in Germany. This is shown by studies from major cities like Berlin, where high doses of medications have been detected in wastewater.

However, many of the “poison cabinet” products are taboo for pregnant women because they affect your biochemistry. In the worst case scenario, serious complications may arise, even leading to the loss of your child. Therefore, be sure to read every package insert and consult your family doctor and gynecologist.

Sports? Yes please!

Even during pregnancy, exercise is a great way to stay fit and active. It also offers a great way to unwind and put thoughts and worries aside for a while.

However, make sure you participate in sports that are enjoyable and safe for you and your child. Avoid contact sports such as martial arts or rugby/football. You should also avoid sports that involve a lot of jumping. Violent blows and jolts could trigger partial detachment of the placenta, which could endanger your child’s life.

Instead, focus on low-impact sports. Swimming is especially recommended . If you plan to visit thermal baths or activity pools, please check in advance whether they are safe for you. Slides are off-limits, and warm mineral baths could also cause adverse reactions if you have a negative reaction to them.

Listen to your body!

The most important rule during pregnancy may sound like a truism. Yet the most important thing is to listen to your body.

Especially in the first few months of your pregnancy, your hormone balance is turned upside down; things you once enjoyed now trigger nausea. And in the later months, you’ll often feel tired and develop cravings that are completely foreign to you.

And you know what? That’s completely normal!

Don’t fight discomfort, but accept it as part of the journey. You will grow, and you will live a different life in the coming months—and probably years. After all, you are now taking responsibility for a new life.

The post Living Healthily During Pregnancy – What To Do? appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.

Often, as soon as the first positive pregnancy test arrives, parents begin to perceive their surroundings differently. Suddenly, all they see in the park are small children, and every headline about possible illnesses, complications during pregnancy, and parenting advice literally stands out from the sea of ​​letters.

Or in short: it has never been so easy to drive yourself crazy.

Finding the right course in the sea of ​​information

Especially for pregnant women, there’s a flood of books, information, and videos that could fill your entire free time. Here’s a documentary about a family with twins, there’s a book about birth and the proper development of a child.

Your own parents, friends, and acquaintances also have many stories to tell , as well as their own opinions and ideas. For example, your brother-in-law might bring over a book about baby sign language, while your good friend insists that only linen diapers are allowed in the house.

Meanwhile, the almost endless checklist from the birth preparation course for the hospital and the time after the birth lies on the table.

Sure, this is all well-intentioned, but does it really have to be that way?

Many young parents must first learn to create their own filters against the flood of information . Especially in our fast-paced, digital lives, the absorption and transmission of information is often a constant flow, without a fixed beginning or clear end. We unconsciously read push notifications on our phones or are manipulated by ads, advertisements, and messages on social media or while surfing the web.

We’ve forgotten how to separate important information from unimportant information. And this skill often has to be painfully relearned. Usually through dramatic experiences, like a recent TV show on German afternoon programming about miscarriages, which was worthy of criticism and included crying mothers, which gave pregnant women many dark thoughts.

Talk early about what is important to you

During pregnancy, it is important to insulate yourself from the storm of stories, opinions and ideas to such an extent that important information gets through, but unimportant or even negative contributions are kept at the door.

After all, young parents certainly have a great need for useful information, whether it’s about important features of a stroller, how to dress children properly, or how to recognize complications during pregnancy early on. Therefore, it’s important to build a network right from the start of pregnancy that provides a manageable stream of reliable and relevant information, without creating unnecessary anxiety or stress.

So totally simple, right?

Many small steps are recommended. For example, you can start by selecting sources to use during pregnancy, whether that’s a friendly YouTuber or a professionally produced specialist magazine.

It also helps if expectant parents discuss things and agree on clear rules about how they want to deal with various issues, fears, and worries. This makes it easier to resolve many critical topics, from amniocentesis to cesarean sections.

But one thing is most important: keep a cool head !

During pregnancy, even doctors tend to exaggerate things or be overly cautious and critical. That’s the job of doctors. Yours, on the other hand, is to enjoy the pregnancy and take a step back. Go to a spa, enjoy the weather, and eat some ice cream. Your worries can wait for you at home while you enjoy the time until your little one turns your life upside down.

The post Just Ignore It: The Flood Of Information During Pregnancy appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.

Of course, your mind is racing, and suddenly everything’s happening at once. Where are the car keys? Who do I need to call? And where is the suitcase?

Yes, the day of birth is a strenuous activity not only for the child and the mother, but for everyone involved. However, with proper preparation, you can approach what is probably the most exciting day of your family life so far with complete peace of mind.

The key to this is that you ‘re ready to go as soon as labor begins . We’ll explain everything you need to consider, pack, and prepare.

The hospital bag

Pack your hospital bag a week or two before your due date. It’s important that it’s readily available and can be loaded into the car.

This must be included:

• Clean underwear and socks for at least four days. (For him and her)
• Comfortable clothes for the first few days in the hospital (for him and her). Look for tops that are suitable for breastfeeding .
• Additionally, clean spare tops for the family visit after the birth .
• Toothbrushes, toothpaste and hygiene products.
• Snacks like granola bars, as fathers tend not to eat anything, especially on the day of the birth – which can cause problems in the delivery room.
• Charging cable for all technical devices (mobile phone, Kindle, Bluetooth speaker, etc.).
• Possibly reading material – although your little darling will provide plenty of entertainment!
• If necessary: ​​Medications that must be taken in the context of chronic illnesses such as blood pressure lowering medication or insulin.
• Smaller health items such as creams and balms.

You can find our comprehensive birth checklist here:

Checklist – What you need for the birth!

The car

Not only is the right attire important for the big day, but it’s also crucial that you and your family arrive at the hospital safely. So prepare your car accordingly for a quick trip to the hospital.

So, in the days leading up to your due date, it’s better to visit the gas station once too often than once too few. Also, keep a set of towels in your car, as well as still mineral water.

Also, drive the route to the hospital at different times of the day and days of the week so that you can get a feel for how long it will take you to get there.

To ensure your little one gets home safely after the hospital visit, a suitable and safe infant car seat is essential and should be part of your initial equipment . We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the purchase, installation, and seating position beforehand to ensure your baby’s safety.

No stress: children’s room and home

Many mothers are particularly struck by the nesting instinct shortly before the birth. This is when scrubbing, polishing, and buffing are a must. The future nursery, in particular, becomes the center of attention.

However, you should still treat yourself to a few quiet days and just put your feet up. After all, the coming years will be stressful enough.

Furthermore, no child sleeps alone in their own room for the first few months, or even years. Methods like Ferberization, which involves letting children cry themselves to sleep , are now extremely controversial and are considered by many experts to be torture, undermining children’s fundamental trust in their parents.

The fact is, even if it feels urgent, the nursery doesn’t have to be ready on the day of the birth. However, if you can do it in time, you can be doubly happy because you can cross another item off the list.

Vacation planning and parental leave

Births, with the exception of cesarean sections, are unpredictable. This also makes vacation planning difficult, especially for fathers. Especially in jobs with limited flexibility, a sudden vacation block of several weeks is often impossible.

Therefore, plan your vacation well in advance and create gaps in your calendar around your due date. Even if you don’t believe it, colleagues are often very helpful if you just ask nicely. However, spontaneity in the sense of “can you step in tomorrow?” is counterproductive. So start planning well in advance.

The same applies to parental leave . As a couple, discuss how you want to use the parental leave granted to you in good time. There are various models, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Families often opt for the 14-month model, which guarantees the mother 12 months of parental leave and the father two months.

During this time, you’ll receive a good 65 to 70 percent of your last average salary. So, consider the family account when discussing possible periods.

While parental leave can be interrupted spontaneously and resumed later, this involves a significant amount of bureaucracy. If the very strict regulations are violated, the office often demands the full amount of parental allowance paid back. So, pay meticulous attention to your documents in this regard.

The most important thing when preparing: stay calm!

On the big day, things may feel overwhelming. So prepare well. But don’t forget that this moment will never come again.

So, enjoy your little one’s first big appearance on this earth. After all, you’ll want to tell your child about this moment someday, and you’ll always associate it with wonderful memories.

Giving birth is a routine for the hospital’s experts, and you’re in good hands. So relax and soak up the impressions of this day.

And of course: congratulations !

The post The Big Day: How To Prepare For The Hospital appeared first on Pregnancy+Parenting.