by Rebecca K.

Created on: July 09, 2009   Last Updated: July 11, 2009

Once the big day finally arrives and your baby makes his/her way into the world, there are some things you're going to need to be prepared for. Of course, there's the obvious crib set-up and car seat installed in your vehicle besides a few boxes of diapers and some adorable newborn outfits. Nope, I'm talking about the other stuff... things you may have read about but could brush off in all the excitement. Things you need to do for you.

So the best thing to do before you even have the baby is to get prepared. Have your house spiffied up, the nursery done ect, but also you'll need some supplies for postpartum care after a vaginal birth. The first thing you're going to need are some pain killers because backaches and strong cramps are common. Get some Tylenol or ask your doctor what is safe if you are breastfeeding. It is important to manage pain so that you will be better able to care for your newborn, don't feel guilty about taking a pill when it is prescribed.

You are also going to need some items to control bleeding. Stock up with a box of heavy maxi pads, medium pads and light pads. You'll bleed for a good two weeks or a bit longer after your baby is born. This is normal and should taper off as your uterus gets tighter and back to its more normal size. The hospital will provide you with pads to use while you are there, but they are ridiculously bulky and for your comfort, you may want to bring your own along in your hospital bag.

Besides that you should also get a bottle of witch hazel and some cotton cosmetic pads or Tux pads. After you use the bathroom, nurses recommend you spray the area with warm water and then gently wipe the area with a Tux pad or witch hazel pad. This is especially important if you've had an episiotomy or have torn during the birth. Witch hazel cools the area which is going to be sore and is a natural cleanser to help with infection.

Also post-baby expect to take it easy. Your body just went through hell- well kind of. Getting up and walking a bit is ok, but don't overdo it. Your muscles need time to tighten up and you don't feel good for a reason; you need time to heal. Ask a relative, spouse or friend for some help with housework or looking after your other children. It is difficult to re-adjust to a new life and get a schedule. Having someone help you out until you get feeling more perky is very necessary. My personal tip is to cook and freeze extra meals ahead of time. Make some lasagna or meatloaf, whatever you like and freeze it in little tv-dinner-type containers. This way when baby comes and you're weak and tired you can pop a meal in the microwave and feed you and your family without much hassle.

Having a baby is a wonderful event, but remember to take care of yourself too. Baby needs you to keep your strength up so you can look after him/her.

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