Few things can be as frustrating for a pregnant mom than waiting for a baby who is overdue or trying to stay occupied in those last few weeks and days before baby arrives. I'm on baby number 4 and I can tell you it doesn't get any easier. As the Big Day approaches, I find myself becoming anxious and even with a full work schedule, I still get antsy wondering when she will make her grand appearance.
But as we all know, the more time your baby has to "cook" before being born, the healthier he or she will typically be and nature has a way of doing it's thing when the time comes so anxious mommies have to be patient. Besides, your doctor won't let you stay pregnant forever, right? So what can you do to keep yourself occupied until your new arrival?
Here are some tips to help you pass the time while waiting for your little one to come:
- Read a book- It may be hard to find quiet time to sit and read once the new baby gets here so take advantage of the opportunity now
- Exercise- Go for a walk, do yoga or other light, approved exercises (as long as your doctor approves). This can help ease tension and stress, keep you in shape and even make your labor easier when the time arrives.
- Start a new hobby- This is a great time to learn a new craft or some hobby you've always wanted to try. Many expecting mommies take on new "projects" with each pregnancy.
- Keep a journal- Even if you've already been keeping a pregnancy journal, this is a great time to write about your pregnancy, your bond with your new baby and your expectations and emotions for the new birth
- Treat yourself- Treat yourself to something special like a pedicure or a new haircut. Try a new special outfit that makes you feel good. Pamper yourself in these last few days of pregnancy.
- Decorate the nursery- This can also be a great time to decorate the nursery, put up those new baby clothes and get the crib ready for your new little bundle of joy
- Visit the hospital- If you are delivering in a hospital and haven't been already, you can visit the Labor and Delivery floor to find out where you should go when the big day finally comes
While it may be tempting, you should try to fight the urge to use "natural" or home remedies for inducing your labor yourself. Always follow the advice of your doctor, nurse practitioner, doula or other health care provider. Even natural herbs and remedies can be dangerous if not taken properly so be sure you do so only under the advice of a professional.
By the end of 9 months, you're probably ready to be done with this pregnancy but in a few years from now, you will look back on it and wonder where the time went and why it passed so quickly. So relax and cherish this time while you have it!
