When you are planning for a little one (congratulations!), that planning can often be very baby-centric. What color will you paint the nursery? Do you have enough onesies? What activities will your family do to ensure bonding with the baby? All of the questions while pregnant start buzzing through your brain.

I’ve had two pregnancies myself and also have two stepchildren. It is really easy to get caught up in the romantic, bigger picture of the child itself and overlook some practical planning. Take a look at some things to consider while you are still pregnant:

5 Questions While Pregnant

• What pediatrician will you use? No, your OB cannot also be a doctor to your child. When you fill out your hospital paperwork, you will need to specify which pediatrician you plan to use so do your research. The best way to find one is by asking your friends for recommendations. You should also go with one that is as close to your home or daycare as possible because you never want a long drive when your baby is sick.

• What birth control is for you? Perhaps it took you a long time to get pregnant, so birth control comes with negative connotations for you. Even if this is the case, you need to consider what methods you want to have in place to prevent future pregnancies before you are ready for them. If pill forms of birth control make you nervous, consider an IUD or even just condoms. If it has been awhile since you used condoms, do some research. There are now brands of condoms that are non-latex and provide a closer sexual experience. Your post-baby sex life will be different — so find a birth control system that can help you relax a bit.

• What child care will you need? Even if you have decided to stay home with your baby, you will need a sitter at one point or another. Perhaps family members in town can fit the bill — but never assume this! Ask people directly if they are willing to help you if needed, whether that is on a schedule or just on-call basis. Many will offer in vague terms so follow up and ask specifically for the help. It is much better to know who you will call or where you will take your baby well in advance than trying to find someone last minute.

• Who can I call? This is a little different than the child care suggestion. You may have scores of family and friends you can contact easily but which ones are the best choices for real advice? Think about which of your friends are more judgmental in general and steer clear of them when it comes to asking for advice. Find the people in your life that are the most supportive and then seek them out when you have questions about the new baby in your house.

• How will my life change? Of course there is really no way to predict the way the course of your life will go based on a baby, even if the child is your fifth or sixth one. Every child is different and changes the family dynamic. Be prepared to let go of some things (perhaps some of your “me time” as a mom) but remember that you have so much more excitement ahead of you. It is a mistake to think that life will go “business as usual.” Be ready for change and ask yourself what you are willing to give up?

Moms — what would you add to this list of questions while pregnant? 

Category: Pregnancy

Tags: babies