Baby makes threeare you ready for the big adjustment
Shelly Webb
February 19, 2012
323
SummaryHaving a baby is something millions of couples look forward to each year. Making sure youre ready for the physical, emotional and financial changes that come with starting a family are important aspects everyone should consider before making that decision.
StoryFew words evoke such joy and excitement as, were having a baby. The prospect of a new life and a cuddly, sweet-smelling infant can melt even the hardest heart. While having a baby is a wonderful experience, it is also a lot of hard work. Couples need to make sure theyre prepared and ready for the changes that will accompany their new bundle of joy.
Director of Personal Health Services, Beth Crone R.N., BSN, of the local Holmes County Health Department says there are many programs and helps available through the health department that address newborn health and family issues, but being prepared with knowledge and information is one of the best ways to begin a family.
There are certain aspects that should be considered before starting a family, Crone explained. Questions such as, are you healthy both physically and emotionally; is your job secure and do you have a place for yourself and a new baby to live, should be explored and answered prior to becoming pregnant.
Finances can be a major issue when deciding whether or not the time is right to start a family. Its easy to lose sight of this when youre really excited and wanting to have a baby, but unfortunately babies require care and attention that comes with a price tag. Making sure youre prepared financially will lessen the stress once the baby arrives.
Babies are expensive as far as prenatal care and delivery, Crone said. But as they grow it becomes even more expensive with increases in food bills, clothing, shoes, furnishing and so forth. There is a balance thought to the question of finances. I believe if everyone waited to have children until they thought they could afford it, they would be more than fifty-years-old. But you do need to make out a budget and see areas to cut especially with childcare or if one of you does not want to return to work. Its just wise to not go into it blind, have a budget, understand the responsibility and be prepared.
In addition to finances its also a good ideal to learn all you can about parenting prior to becoming pregnant. Knowledge is power regardless of what the situation or circumstance. Also consider your own health and make sure youre ready physically to take care of someone else.
Reading parenting magazines, articles and learning as much as you can about children is a good idea, Crone shared. Children do not come with an owners manual. Also be as healthy as you can for the sake of a new baby. Get your own vaccinations current before you become pregnant. All adults need a Tdap and yearly flu shot. There are other vaccines now available for adults as well. The HPV (3 series) vaccine for prevention of cervical cancer, genital warts and anal cancer should be considered as well as preventative screenings geared to keep you healthy. Also asking family questions and knowing your family history as far as birth defects, congenital or heredity diseases go is a good idea. If you smoke, quit and if you use other drugs, stop. Decrease the amount of alcohol intake as well.
Crone says to also be aware of your nutritional health and weight.
Take a good look at your nutritional intake, she said. Are you over or under weight? Is exercise a part of your lifestyle? Do you have other health issues that may be impacted by pregnancy? Also as important as it is for your body to be in its best health before you become pregnant, it is also essential for your mind to be just as emotionally healthy.
Crone suggests asking yourself the following questions: do you often feel sad, anxious, worried for longer than 2 weeks, what makes you feel this way. What makes you angry and how do you calm yourself. What do you do if someone says something that you dont like? Is there someone in your life that is physically abusing you, or who says mean or hurtful things to you? Is there anyone in your life who is forcing you to take part in sexual activities that make you feel uncomfortable?
These are forms of abuse and should be discussed with a safe person whether your doctor, counselor, pastor, teacher, friend or relative, Crone added. Being prepared for a new baby is a big step and involves learning a lot about oneself in the process.
People have plans for everything under the sun, vacation plans, retirement plans, wedding plans, graduation plans and career plans it only makes sense to have a Reproductive Life Plan. Examine your goals and dreams. Know your finances, your health, where youre at emotionally and whether or not youre truly ready to be a parent.
Your goals and dreams are very important to living a happy life and raising happy children, Crone said. In those dreams, when do you see yourself starting a family? This is what your Reproductive Life Plan is all about planning ahead to meet your goals in life and having a happy and healthy family! Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What will your life be like at that time? How much education do you want to complete? What type of work or career path do you want to pursue? Will you continue to work after you become a mother? If you want to be a stay at home mom; will you be able to afford to do it? Its important to have a solid plan before starting a family. It will only make things better and more enjoyable.
