 There's A Lot to
Think About.
View the printable version of Preparing
for the New Baby
Health Care for Your Baby
Deciding who will take care of your baby's health is one of the most important things
you need to do before her or his arrival. Plan in advance - don't wait until after you
baby is born to choose a health care provider! Babies need frequent check-ups and
immunizations, and sometimes get sick, so you will want to find a health care provider you
like and trust to care for your child. You might want to call and request an interview
with a few pediatricians; this is commonly done. Some area hospitals and health insurance
plans can provide you with specific information on a pediatrician, such as where they
trained, the number of years they have been in practice, and any specialty areas. You
might also want to find out about their available office hours and how they handle
concerns and emergencies after office hours. And, it always helps to talk with other moms
for referrals.
Just like you, your baby will need health coverage. If you are worried about the cost
of health care or have limited funds, there are programs available for children who do not
have health insurance. Click here for more information on assistance with children's health insurance.
Deciding on health care and insurance before your child's birth saves you time and
gives you peace of mind, because a health care provider will be there when your baby
needs care. If you deliver your baby at a hospital where your chosen pediatrician normally
sees patients, he or she will see the baby right after the delivery. If you deliver at a
hospital where the pediatrician does not normally see patients, you can tell your doctor
and nurses and they will make sure the baby is seen by a hospital staff pediatrician right
after the birth. When you are discharged from the hospital, you can call your own
pediatrician to schedule a visit within a few days. Remember to bring your baby's medical
records that will be given to you before leaving the hospital.
Around the Home
Your baby is on the way, and there is a lot to think about. Besides making sure that
you have baby furniture and clothing for your new son or daughter, you'll want to check
that your home is safe. Make sure there are no loose ends, sharp edges or small harmful
parts that will be near your baby. Also make sure you have fire alarms or carbon monoxide
detectors (if you have gas appliances) in your home so you can protect your baby in the
event of an emergency.
Baby Shopping List
You have so much to prepare before your new baby is born. You may want to begin
purchasing clothing, a car seat, and furniture for the baby so you are fully prepared for
your new arrival. Also don't forget about all the items your new baby will need on a daily
basis, such as diapers, wash cloths, bottles, burp cloths, and more! If you are having a
baby shower, your friends and family may also ask you what items they can help you with.
We recommend talking to other new moms about the items they purchased for their babies,
and the brands that they recommend. There are so many baby items and different brands to
choose from, that it may be helpful to get some expert advice, so that you will not be
stressed about these decisions.
The National Women's Health Information Center (NWHIC) has provided the following list
of items a newborn baby will need to help you in your shopping efforts, so you can
concentrate on staying healthy, resting, and being excited for your new baby's birth. We
have also included links to web pages with safety information about those products that
may pose a risk to your baby if safety guidelines are not followed. If you have more
questions about the safety of baby products, we recommend that you ask your health care
provider. The most important thing to remember is that your baby only needs food, shelter
and you. So don't be overwhelmed by the numerous baby products available.
To view or download the NWHIC suggested list of items for a new baby, click on our BABY SHOPPING LIST ...
The following resources also can help you with preparing for your new baby:
This page last updated: June 2003 |
