Birth preparation – 10 tips for the first time with your newborn baby

Your Baby is Coming Soon? Here’s How to Prepare Without Stress!

Birth preparation: The birth is approaching, and your mind is buzzing with thoughts? Totally normal! The nesting instinct kicks in, to-do lists get longer, and you want to get everything done before your baby arrives. To help you enjoy this special time, here are some essential tips for preparing for your little one.

1. Setting Up the Right Sleep Space for Your Baby

Before your baby arrives, you and your family should decide where your baby will sleep. In your bed? In a bedside crib? Or in their own room? You don`t need to make a final decision here, just think about the start.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, experts recommend that babies sleep in a bedside crib in the parents‘ bedroom for the first few months. This makes nighttime feedings much easier, whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, as your baby is right next to you.

That being said, many newborns prefer being close to their parents, and you might feel tempted to let your baby sleep in your bed. While this is understandable, doctors strongly advise against bed-sharing to reduce the risk of SIDS.

👉 Once you’ve decided on the sleeping arrangement, it’s time to set up the crib!

2. Prepare Meals in Advance – You’ll Thank Yourself Later!

Feeding, cuddling, changing diapers – and repeat! Once your baby arrives, cooking will likely be the last thing on your mind. However, healthy meals are especially important now, particularly if you’re recovering from childbirth and breastfeeding.

✨ Pro tip: Cook some meals ahead of time and freeze them! A stocked freezer is a lifesaver.

You can also ask friends and family to bring meals when they come to meet the baby. And if needed, don’t hesitate to order takeout or use meal delivery services.

3. Nesting Instinct? Use It to Your Advantage!

Whether it’s shopping for mini onesies or rearranging the entire house – the nest-building instinct is real! Some mums-to-be suddenly start cleaning windows (with my baby no. 2 😁) or wanting a new kitchen (yes, that was me heavily pregnant with baby no. 3 🙈) in preparation for the birth.

💡 My tip: Do what makes you happy – but stay safe! No climbing ladders, okay?

4. Plan for Postpartum Support

After birth, you need time to recover. Your body has just done something incredible – so give yourself grace and rest!
Things to consider:
✅ Can your partner take some time off? Even a month of parental leave can make a big difference!
✅ Who can help with daily tasks? Family, friends, neighbors?
✅ Do you have childcare arrangements for older siblings during the first few weeks?
The more you plan ahead, the smoother your postpartum experience will be.

5. Find a Midwife – Sooner Rather Than Later!

Birth Preparation nr.1!! If you haven’t found a midwife yet, now is the time! Many midwives are booked well in advance. A midwife not only supports you during birth but also provides invaluable postpartum care.

6. Take a Birth Preparation Course

If you haven’t already, consider signing up for a prenatal class around week 25 of pregnancy.

Whether in-person or online, a good birth course will help you feel more confident and prepared for labor.

7. Baby Essentials – What You Really Need

To avoid last-minute stress, make sure you have the baby basics ready before birth. Here’s a checklist:

👶 For your baby:
✔ Clothing, sleep sacks & burp cloths
✔ Diapers, baby wipes & skincare products
✔ Car seat, baby carrier & stroller
✔ Crib, changing table & dresser

🏡 For your home:
✔ Wash all baby clothes & blankets before using them
✔ Assemble furniture (crib, changing table) before birth
✔ Set up a cozy nursing/feeding corner

💡 Pro tip: Sort baby clothes by size – newborns grow faster than you’d expect!

8. Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding? Know Your Options

Whether you plan to breastfeed or bottle-feed – the choice is yours! The important thing is to be informed about both options.

If you’re planning to breastfeed, make sure you have:
✔ Nursing bras & breast pads
✔ A nursing pillow for comfort

If you’ll be bottle-feeding, you’ll need:
✔ Baby bottles & formula
✔ A bottle sterilizer or boiling water for cleaning

💡 Tip: Even if you plan to breastfeed, having a small supply of formula on hand can be helpful, just in case.

9. Involve Your Partner

Raising a baby is a team effort also during birth preparation! Encourage your partner to take part in daily baby care – whether it’s diaper changes, bottle feeding, or laundry.

This not only strengthens their bond with the baby but also gives you much-needed support.

10. Mama, Take a Deep Breath!

Yes, easier said than done – I know! But relaxation is the best preparation for your baby’s arrival.

✨ Enjoy the last moments as a couple – soon, it will be a wonderful, yet busy family adventure!

Important Facts About Life with a Newborn

Wondering what to expect? Here are a few facts that might help you prepare:

💡 Newborns have tiny stomachs: They need milk every 2-3 hours, meaning about 10 feedings per day.

💡 Baby blues are common: About 75% of moms experience hormonal mood swings after birth. It’s normal, as long as it passes on its own.

💡 Sleep? Yes, but with interruptions! Newborns sleep around 20 hours a day but wake up frequently. We would love to get in touch with you about Newborn sleep.

💡 Sex after birth? No rush! Many women experience a temporary drop in libido, which is completely normal.

The last weeks before birth can feel exciting, overwhelming, and magical all at once. But with a bit of planning, you can enjoy this time and feel more prepared.

💜 You’ve got this – and you’re going to be an amazing mom!

References:

https://www.dgkj.de/eltern/dgkj-elterninformationen/elterninfo-sicherer-schlaf

https://www.gesundheit.gv.at/leben/eltern/nach-der-geburt/baby-blues-depression.html