by Tania Young on
4th May 2012
The centre of your universe will no
longer be you, and you may lose sight of things that you now regard
as paramount.
It sounds daunting. But it needn't
be!!
Having a baby should be one of the most thrilling rides of your
life, so in order to help you prepare, we have put together a
collection of realities to consider.
Before you jump on board
- A healthy pregnancy begins before you conceive. You and
your partner should start making healthy choices as early
as possible.
"Tick a few things off the old
bucket list
be
BRAVE"
- Alcohol and cigarettes, processed foods, caffeine and other
stimulants should be a fond (or not so fond) memory.
"Enjoy your body"
Wear a bikini
- Folic acid: It will help to prevent major birth
defects. Take a vitamin with 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid
every day before you get pregnant and for the first three months of
your pregnancy. FYI - Folic Acid - Ministry of Health NZ
"Be ready to define
love"
- Save money while you have it, and pay off as
much personal debt as you can. For most people, debt is just an
accepted part of life - unfortunately, it can quickly become a much
bigger issue when you have another mouth to feed.
"Communicate"
- Be open with your partner about your hopes and
expectations. It is not realistic to expect entirely smooth
sailing, but these conversations will be much less emotional before
baby comes along.
After Conception
- Allow us to step in here and remind you about
insurance. Should the unexpected happen to you - are you
covered? Taking leave from work? You may want to put your income
protection cover on hold.
"Don't overspend"
- Arrange your birth-care early - midwife/obstetrician,
antenatal classes etc. Talk to your friends, and take advice from
others. Midwifery Council
Take-off!
- Medical insurance: As soon as your baby is born, you
can add him/her to either parent's policy. If you don't already
have health insurance, you can take out a policy for you and your
baby at the same time.
- Sleep when your baby sleeps! You will need it. Don't
let the little things (like housework) worry you.
- Don't compare yourselves to other new parents. People
rarely share (or divulge on Facebook) the not-so-nice things that
their kids do. When you hear about children that sleep through the
night or start walking at eight months, don't worry - it
isn't real.
We would love to hear how you prepared
for your bravest adventure - let us know!
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