By: Sara Samuels

1. Childbirth Education

It is just as important for you to be there as it is for mom. You will need to learn the techniques to help her while she is in labor. It will also prepare you for the things you will see, and you can ask questions before you are in the delivery room.

2. Take a tour of the birthing center

This is very important. You need to know where the bathrooms are, vending machines, waiting room, where you can call family. Also it will help you to feel a little more comfortable when the time comes not being in a completely new environment.

3. Read….

Read anything you can about childbirth, support measures, breastfeeding…yes you should know too. It’s very important to feel comfortable with your newborn as well, so if you’re nervous there are books, movies and classes to help ease the nerves.

4. The Birth Plan

Help mom create the birth plan. Know what she wants, what she doesn’t, and what you can do to help her get what she wants. Also be realistic, knowing that a birth plan is just a guideline. You will need to be the one comforting mom if things don’t go as planned.

5. Pack a bag

Pack a bag for yourself too. You will be there a while and may need a change of clothes, tooth brush, deodorant, and snacks.

6. Transportation

You need to figure out who’s driving, what route, what car, bring towels for the car incase her water breaks. Also figure out alternative routes, traffic and road construction may really slow you down.

7. Childcare

Be a part of the childcare decision, go with to interview providers. Remember that the best places generally have long waiting lists for infants. You will also need to figure out where any older siblings will go during the hospital stay.

8. Car seat

Make sure that you have installed the car seat, or base before you are leaving the hospital with baby. You can call your local fire/police department to ask them to inspect it, they generally do this for free. Then you won’t have to worry about if you got it in right.

9. Postpartum Mood Disorders

Make sure that before you leave the hospital, you know the signs of postpartum mood disorders (postpartum depression). Ask the nurse, pediatrician, or obstetrician for this information. It is important that you know what to look for.

10. Ask for help…

Don’t be afraid to ask for help at any point before, during or after childbirth. Especially after, if you have to go back to work, make sure there is help available. Use friends, family, or postpartum doulas. Also think ahead about meals, freeze some beforehand.