Last Minute Activities Before Delivery

As the delivery day approaches, there are some last minute activities and preparations to consider so that you and your family are prepared for your child's arrival. 

If you do have the time, consider these activities before delivery. For example:

• Make a list of people who will receive birth announcements. If you’re ordering print announcements, select the announcement style, and address the envelopes in advance. Likewise, gather e-mail addresses or phone numbers for announcing your baby’s arrival.
• Cook a number of meals and freeze them.
• Look for child care and/or housekeeping help if you can afford it, and interview candidates in advance. You can also take advantage of friends and family members who are available to help. Even if you don’t think you’ll need extra help, you should have a list of names to call in case the situation changes.

Before your ninth month, make last-minute preparations for delivery. Your checklist should include the following:

• Name, address, and phone number of the hospital.
• Name, address, and phone number of the doctor or nurse-midwife who will deliver your baby and of the person who covers the practice when your doctor is not available.
• The quickest and easiest route to the hospital or birthing center.
• The location of the hospital entrance you should use when labor begins.
• The phone number of an ambulance service, in case you need such assistance in an emergency.
• The phone number of the person who will take you to the hospital (if that individual does not live with you).
• A bag packed with essentials for labor and for the rest of your hospital stay, including toiletries, clothing, addresses and phone numbers of friends and relatives, reading material, and a receiving blanket and suit of clothes for the baby to wear home.
• A car safety seat for the vehicle so you can take your baby home safely. Make sure the seat meets all federal safety standards. (It should state this on the label.) Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Install it in the backseat, facing the rear. (Never place a rear-facing car safety seat in front of an air bag.) It should stay in this position at least until your baby reaches one year of age and weighs at least 20 pounds (9 kg). According to safety experts, keeping her facing the rear until she reaches the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat manufacturer is the safest way for her to ride. Don’t forget to have your car seat checked by a trained professional. Proper use and installation is key to protecting your little one during a crash.
• If you have other children, arrange for their care during the time you will be at the hospital.