If you are in the final stages of pregnancy, it is normal for you to feel some uncertainty. Even if you have been a mother before, you will know that each pregnancy and each birth are different, so that concern is more than justified. In this sense, We want to talk to you about the 24 hours before delivery.
Perhaps some of the things we tell you you already know, but what matters is that you remember them so that you can be fully prepared for that special moment. The last 24 hours before giving birth are crucial and they can be full of emotions and preparations. We want to be your guide for these important and special hours in your life.
Recognize the signs of labor
The first thing in the 24 hours before delivery is to recognize the signs that the moment is approaching. That's why, we want to give you some instructions so that, if you are getting very close to the expected moment, you will be able to recognize it more easily:
- regular contractions: Regular uterine contractions that become more intense and frequent are a clear sign that labor is approaching.
- Loss of the mucous plug: You may notice a mucous discharge that indicates that the mucus plug has dislodged. This often occurs days or even weeks before delivery.
- Membrane rupture: If you feel like your water has broken and you experience amniotic fluid leaking, it's time to contact your doctor.
- Lower back pain: Many women feel lower back pain before regular contractions begin.
- Cervical changes: Your cervix may begin to dilate and efface in the weeks or days before delivery. Your doctor can tell you this in a cervical exam.
These signs will be warning you that the time to hold your baby in your arms is getting closer. It is normal for you to feel great emotion, and it is no wonder!
What are the preparations 24 hours before childbirth?
Now that you know how to identify the signs of labor, now it's time to know what preparations you must make so that you don't lack anything and above all, so that you feel control over everything that is happening. Feeling in control is not easy because you don't know how everything will happen, but making preparations will help you to be calm and calm before the wonderful process that is coming.
Contact your doctor
If you experience regular contractions or any other signs that labor is approaching, Contact your doctor or midwife immediately. They will guide you on when is the right time to head to the hospital or birth center.
Pack your hospital bag before delivery
Make sure you have a hospital bag ready with all the essentials you need for you and your baby. This includes comfortable clothing, personal hygiene items, medical documents, clothes for the baby and any other items you have decided to bring.
Think about how you will go to the hospital
If you don't have a car or can't drive, arrange transportation to the hospital or birth center in advance.. Having a backup plan in case your partner or companion is not available is a good idea. This will give you peace of mind at the most important moment of your life, it is a very important plan B!
Food and drink
Maintain an adequate intake of food and fluids, but avoid heavy and greasy foods that could cause discomfort during childbirth. Light and balanced meals are ideal to maintain your energy so that during childbirth you do not have any problems derived from heavy digestion.
Rest before delivery
Try to rest as much as possible. We know that emotion can make it difficult to sleep, but being rested will give you the energy you need during labor. If you don't fall asleep, at least use the time to meditate, take deep breaths and find the calm that both your body and your mind need.
How to manage stress and anxiety
We know that 24 hours before delivery can be very intense and can cause you stress and anxiety. For this, Below we are going to recommend some simple strategies but powerful so you can keep stress and anxiety at bay.
breathing and meditation
As we told you in the previous point, deep breathing and meditation can help you stay calm and focused on yourself. Practice deep breathing to relax when you feel tension.
Talk to your loved ones about your birth
Sharing your feelings and concerns with a loved one can ease the emotional burden. It can be your partner a close friend or family member.
Keep a pregnancy diary
Keeping a journal of your thoughts and emotions can be a therapeutic way to process your feelings. Write down what you feel and what you are expecting regarding the birth.
Furthermore, when your baby is born and the months and years pass, You will like to reread all those lines again… Even when your child is older you can show it to him/her and it will be a special moment for both of you.
gentle exercises
Doing gentle exercise like prenatal yoga or short walks can release endorphins, which can help improve your mood. You don't need to do too much, Just some movements or just walking will be enough.
Support from your birth team
During the last 24 hours before delivery, it is essential to have the support of your birth team. This may include your partner, family or trusted friends, as well as medical staff. what matters is Keep in mind who these people will be around you in these crucial moments. Once you are clear, keep the following points in mind.
open communication with them
Maintain open and clear communication with your birthing team. Share your needs and wishes for the birth, and make sure you understand the health care plan. Remember that you choose your birth team... they are important people to you.
Emotional support before and after childbirth
Your birth team is there to give you emotional support. Allow them to be present and help you with whatever you need. You don't want to do it all alone Although childbirth is a natural process, you will need to be attended to and your loved ones will be happy to do so, do not deprive them of that.
Don't stop learning about childbirth
Ask your birth team about any questions or concerns you have. Continuing education is key to feeling safe and empowered.
Breaks for your birthing team
Remember that your birth team may also need breaks. Allow them to take a breath to recharge… Childbirth can be a long process, so they will need to recharge to be able to continue being by your side when you need them with full energy.
Listen to your body
During these last 24 hours, listening to your body is essential. The contractions may become stronger and more frequent, and your body will tell you when it is time to head to the hospital or birth center.
but to do it, you must learn to listen to your bodyIt is not something that we are used to doing and the reality is that it is something that we should all learn, not only during pregnancy, but also on a nutritional or emotional level.
But in this case, it's important that you listen to your body so you know everything it's telling you during the 24 hours leading up to delivery. For this, the points that we discuss below are very important that you know them from now on.
Control the time between contractions
If your contractions are regular and occur every five minutes for at least an hour, it is a good time to go to the hospital or contact your doctor if you are planning a birth at home or in a birth center.
Observe the level of pain
If the pain from contractions is intense and difficult to manage, is another sign that labor is progressing and that it is time to seek medical attention.
listen to your womb
You know your body better than anyone. If you feel like something is wrong or something has changed, don't hesitate to contact your doctor right away.
Don't be afraid to ask for help during childbirth
No matter how much you have prepared, childbirth can be unpredictable. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you feel like something isn't right. Your birth team is there to ensure the safety of you and your baby.
In this sense, do not settle for less, if you feel that something is not going as it should, even if you think it is nonsense, do not keep it quiet, it is important that you immediately notify your family and medical team so that they look for the solution you need as soon as possible.
The 24 hours leading up to delivery are a period full of excitement and preparation. Take advantage of this time to take care of yourself, communicate with your team for that moment, and listen to your body. With the right support and preparation, you are ready to face childbirth with confidence and courage.