What happens after the birth Part 4

We covered birthing in Part 3. Now the next phase - Immediately after birthing.

After the Birthing

The phase immediately after Birthing is an important stage for bonding, not only between mummy and baby, but for daddy as well. Yes, this is a crucial time for mummy and daddy to bond with baby. Science has shown New Borns (NBs) have a strong sense of smell and they will recognize and remember the first smells. So, whose smell and what smells would you like your precious NB to first smell, remember and bond to?

For our case, the doctor and staff gave our precious healthy baby to mummy immediately once she came out of the birth canal (yes that’s what they call it). Other procedures like wiping off baby and weighing were done later. And what happened when mummy needed some rest, did they quickly cart baby to the nursery? No, they offered and we asked, that baby be left with daddy to allow for more skin to skin. Yes, even daddy and baby should have some skin to skin.

Going to the maternity ward

Once mum has rested, as per norm, mummy and baby are moved to the maternity ward. How do you plan out the few days in the maternity ward? Where do you leave your baby? How about when your baby has to go for his or her immunization, what do you do? How about Vitamin K?

Yes, there’s lots to learn and lots to cover. Starting from pre-birth, how to prepare yourself, your spouse, your children. How to talk to your doctor, what to consider in choosing a doctor and hospital. And when the moment occurs, what are the dos and don’t. What are the signs. Yes, there is even a sign and time when most mummies will insist on an epidural, yet you will know and be able to comfort mummy that it’s no longer required (or even allowed) as baby is nearly here. And what to do immediately after birthing?

Was it all worth it for me? Yes, even as a parent with 1 kid, the journey into parenthood (Rev2) was definitely well worth it, and more fulfilling as we were more prepared and informed.

What's Next?

So what's next after this (or actually before). For me, many things, among others

1. Protecting mummy and baby
2. Planning out post delivery - confinement, pantang food, post-natal massage (urut pantang)
3. Follow up check-ups
4. Jaundice (kuning)

I'll continue writing and cover more of the above in coming posts. Follow this website or check-in again soon.