People always talk about the glow you get when you’re pregnant, and the excitement of shopping for baby clothes, the crib and all the cute little details of the nursery. And while the journey through pregnancy and into motherhood is a great one, it also comes with challenges.
Becoming a mother is a whole different level of commitment with physical and mental demands.
Once your pregnancy has been confirmed it is important to determine what course of action will be best for you throughout your pregnancy.
Research obstetricians and hospitals in order to determine who is best for you and what options there are to handle pregnancy issues such as morning sickness and constipation.
For example, natural medicine focuses on using natural remedies to combat these issues. Standard Western medicine relies strongly on over-the-counter or prescription medication for such problems.
Once you have decided which option suits you best, choose a doctor or specialist who understands well how you intend to handle your pregnancy.
Costs to expect during pregnancy
Depending on the type of specialist, prepare to pay for 10 antenatal consultations (tests, checkups and screenings), plus ultrasound fees.
While many women believe that private hospitals will give them better care and service, it is perfectly possible to have a positive experience at a public institution once you have picked the right hospital and doctor for you. Public hospitals are cheaper than private ones.
While the doctor can provide you with information that may settle your concerns, it is important to be aware of the risks and expectations at each stage.
If you are aware of what changes should be occurring in your body and to your baby, you are more likely to notice if something is wrong and needs to be addressed by your doctor.
It is also good to keep yourself updated on the various vitamins and supplements that can aid as you go along your pregnancy journey.
Shopping during pregnancy
Now, on to the more exciting stuff – shopping! It is easy to go overboard buying the cute little clothes, but buying infant clothes in a variety of sizes is suggested as babies grow very quickly in the first few months.
Diapers in a variety of sizes can also be bought beforehand, though some babies are allergic to certain fibres or materials in their sensitive areas so it may not be wise to buy too many.
Baby bottles, toys, accessories and various other items should be purchased before the baby has arrived – this removes some of the inevitable stress that will follow the birth.
Giving birth
Most women prefer to be delivered by the doctor responsible for their prenatal care, as there is usually a familiarity and comfort that a new doctor may not be able to bring.
The amount of money spent will depend on what type of practitioner you have chosen and whether they operate privately or publicly; private institutions will cost more than public, generally.
The cost for a normal delivery with epidural depends on the type of room chosen and which hospital. If a C-section is necessary the cost of the delivery room is higher due to the increased monitoring and equipment needed before and after a C-section.
Having a baby is a wonderful experience but it can be stressful. Remember to relax and enjoy the experience.
Good luck!
This article first appeared in The New Savvy.
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