Pregnancy & Birth
Congratulations you have found out you are pregnant! Yay! But now you are completely overwhelmed on where to start or what to do next, well we got you! We have put together this list from our personal experiences, professionals and that lady down the road who you've known your whole life and has 3 kids.
Things You May Not Know That Might Happen Now
Leaky boobs – Milk can make a surprise appearance at the most inconvenient times.
Afterpains – Just when you think contractions are over, your uterus has more shrinking to do.
Bleeding – Say hello to lochia, the not-so-fun period that sticks around for weeks.
Hair loss – Postpartum hair shedding can leave you wondering if you’re secretly part cat.
Mood swings – From laughing one minute to crying the next. Thank you, hormones!
Sore nipples – Breastfeeding can make you feel like your baby’s a little piranha at first.
Swollen everything – Feet, hands, and even your face may still look puffy for a while.
Constipation – Your digestive system might slow down, so don’t forget the fibre and water.
Emotional rollercoaster – The "baby blues" can make you feel all the feels.
Night sweats – Waking up drenched like you've run a marathon overnight.
Some More Things That May Happen
Hemorrhoids – Because labour sometimes leaves little souvenirs.
Forgetfulness – "Baby brain" doesn't disappear the moment bub arrives.
Exhaustion – Running on a sleep-deprived autopilot while functioning on coffee and love.
Body changes – Your body’s been through the wringer, and it may take time to feel like yourself again.
Breast engorgement – When your boobs feel like over-inflated water balloons.
Tears "down there" – If you've had stitches, sitting may not be your favourite pastime for a while.
Bonding moments – Despite the chaos, there are magical moments of baby cuddles and sweet firsts.
Visitors overload – Everyone wants to meet bub, but setting boundaries can help you rest.
Sneezing is risky – Let's just say, the pelvic floor might not be as strong as it used to be.
The "mum pouch" – That extra belly softness may hang around longer than you thought.
Remember, all this is part of the recovery, and every mum's journey is different!
Pregnancy & Birth Resources:
Mental Health Services
Australia offers a range of mental health services, including counselling, therapy, and support for conditions like anxiety and depression. Services are available through helplines, online platforms, and in-person care, with many being Medicare-supported.
Partner Involvement in Pregnancy: Ways to Stay Engaged and Supportive
Pregnancy is a shared experience, regardless of whether the primary support person is a partner, family member, or friend. By being engaged,supportive, and nurturing, those involved in the mother’s pregnancy can help foster a sense of calm, preparedness, and joy.
The Trimesters
Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each with unique milestones. The first trimester focuses on early development, the second brings noticeable growth and energy, and the third prepares both you and your baby for birth
My Hospital Bag Blog (Having a baby in Melbourne, Australia)
Is your essential guide to packing for a Melbourne birth, covering everything you'll need for comfort, care, and a smooth hospital stay. With tips on must-haves and local insights, this checklist ensures you're ready for the big day!
