Becoming a parent is the greatest feeling in the world, and it’s a role that’ll provide a lifetime of happiness too.
There are plenty of challenges to consider as your child gets older, such as coping with their anxiety. However, your worries start long before your son or daughter enters this world. So, if you’ve got dozens of questions circling your head, you are certainly not alone.
Hopefully, the following FAQs will provide some clarity on the subject.
What if we can’t get pregnant naturally?
The concept of getting pregnant is the most natural starting point for any couple to consider. The harsh reality is that roughly 1 in 7 couples struggle to conceive without interference.
There is no set timeframe when it comes to trying to conceive. Some couples luck out on the first attempt, some take months, some take years. Everyone is different. Some people need a little help to become pregnant, and this is when fertility treatments come into play. The average fertility treatment cost is more affordable than it once was. This gives extra hope to couples looking for a natural pregnancy.
But if you cannot have a baby in a natural way, it won’t make you any less of a parent. Parents who adopt or use other methods make just as wonderful parents if they conceived naturally, not least because they appreciate it. One way or another, your dreams can come true.
Will COVID impact the pregnancy processes and medical care?
Even if you became pregnant tomorrow, it’s likely that the situation will be under much greater control by the time you give birth. While that doesn’t mean our world will back to true normality, you should at least be able to have your birthing partner in the hospital.
In the meantime, healthcare professionals and maternity staff continue to provide world-class services. Virtual antenatal classes will be available while telehealth has grown at a rapid rate in several states across the country. In most cases, though, you will follow a fairly similar schedule to any other expectant parents.
Likewise, the COVID elements are unlikely to affect prices or insurance coverage. More importantly, the natural progress of pregnancy won’t change for anything.
How can parents support their baby during pregnancy?
The nine months of pregnancy are a truly magical time, but there will be testing moments too. Morning sickness, sleepless nights, and bodily changes can all impact moms-to-be – and dads-to-be will feel the impact of this too. The best thing that couples can do is stay united as a team. You are stronger together!
Dads (or mom no.2s) need to show support for mom and make her comfortable. Reduced stress levels are naturally very good for the baby. Meanwhile, regular exercise and good nutrition are vital. However, you should know that the “eating for two” thing is slightly inaccurate. You can eat a little more, but adding an extra 2000 calories to your daily intake can be problematic.
Regularly talking to your baby is another step in the right direction. Crucially, you should maintain a close relationship with the OB-GYN as their insight will be priceless. From sleeping positions to vitamins, don’t be afraid to seek their advice.
How should the home be prepared for Baby’s arrival?
Taking your baby home for the first time is one of the most rewarding moments in your life, but it’s very daunting too. Even if you’ve put a comprehensive plan in place, you’ll probably worry that something is wrong or incomplete. As long as the essentials are in place, you can focus on other issues later on.
For example, more than likely your baby won’t sleep in their crib during the early weeks and will use a Moses basket instead. It’s more important to worry about the temperature and air circulation of the bedroom and living spaces rather than bedroom decor. Childproofing isn’t that important until your baby starts crawling. Conversely, this is a great time to think about increased home security.
Crucially, you must ensure that you have enough clothes, diapers, bottles, pacifiers, and items that the baby needs. If this is your first baby, you’ll be amazed at how quickly your child goes through those daily items. Do not underestimate it for a second.
When baby arrives, is breast really best?
For nine months of your life, you will spend a lot of time thinking about the birth itself. Then, when it happens, everything changes in an instant. You are suddenly faced with a plethora of new responsibilities. One of the most important issues – and the one you’ll worry about most – is their feedings. The big question is whether you should breastfeed?
There is usually truth in the notion that “breast is best”. Most moms will at least try to feed their baby in this way for the first week or two. This is where nutritious elements are at their peak. However, there are many reasons why your child might not take to the breast. In this case, expressing through a breast pump is equally good.
However, millions of moms cannot take to breastfeeding despite trying. Formula milk won’t do your child any harm. Crucially, if it prevents you from getting stressed out at each mealtime, it’s probably the better solution for everyone.
What if we’re bad parents?
It’s only natural to worry about this too. However, the reality of the situation is that you’ll probably be fine. The fact you’re even reading this blog shows you care and will be dedicated to providing your son or daughter with the best start in life. This instantly gives you a solid platform to build upon.
Whether it’s through classes, books, videos, or speaking to other parents and experts doesn’t matter. Help is readily available if you are willing to search for it. Better still, it does not have to end when you leave the maternity hospital ward. In today’s climate, there are several great forums for new parents to discuss their fears and share tips.
Ultimately, though, you will find that the bulk of parenting comes quite naturally. Your maternal and paternal instincts will take over. As this blog has shown many times, mistakes will happen. Even so, your love as parents will guide you to success. You will be amazing!
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