What to Expect When You are Expecting: Guide for Parents-To-Be

If you are having a baby on the way, congratulations! The path to parenthood is filled with joy and excitement, but not without moments of anxiety. As first-time parents, it is completely normal to have uncertainties about the experience of bringing your little one into the world.

Fear not. In this guide, we will delve into what parents-to-be can expect and share practical tips to help you navigate the early phases of parenthood with confidence.

Nurturing a Healthy Pregnancy

For an expectant mother, pregnancy entails significant physical changes and a rollercoaster of mood swings caused by hormonal surges. Managing these ups and downs during the pregnancy journey is essential for a smoother transition into parenthood. This includes maintaining proper nutrition, practising self-care, and scheduling regular prenatal checkups to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.

Learning About Antenatal Care

One of the best approaches to prepare yourself for parenthood is to attend antenatal classes tailored for parents-to-be. These classes cover a range of topics to help parents-to-be cope with various challenges that may arise during pregnancy and after childbirth. They provide hands-on experience and guidance from experts, enabling you to feel more confident in your parenting abilities.

Anticipating Parenthood Challenges

Managing Sleep Deprivation

Babies tend to wake frequently for feeding and comfort as they gradually adapt to the new world. As a result, sleepless nights will become a part of your routine as you cope with your newborn's erratic sleeping behaviour. To ensure that both you and your partner get enough rest, it is important to discuss and share night-time responsibilities with each other, or have a family member to help.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breast milk contains the right balance of nutrients for a baby and it is recommended for mothers to breastfeed their baby until he or she is six months old.

Compared to formula milk, nutrients in breastmilk such as sugar and protein, can be better absorbed and used by a baby. Breastmilk also contain other useful nutrients that are beneficial for a baby’s brain and nervous system development. Studies have shown that breastfed babies perform better on intelligence tests when they grow older.

Reaching Out for Support

Having a strong support group can offer greater comfort and assurance during the challenges of parenthood. Family and friends often serve as the first line of defence, providing the emotional support and assistance you will need. Additionally, there are various parenting groups in Singapore where new parents and expecting parents can join to connect, seek advice, and share experiences as a community.

Financial Planning for the Future

Parenthood, while incredibly rewarding, often requires financial adjustments to accommodate the needs of your growing family. Start by creating a budget plan that considers various expenses, from childbirth to the baby’s necessities. You should also establish long-term goals to set aside additional savings for your child’s future needs, such as child care and education. For new parents who require financial assistance, there are available government financial schemes that can help them ease into parenthood.

Strengthening the Communication with Your Partner

As you and your spouse navigate the challenges of raising a child together, discuss your expectations. Be vocal and transparent about the parenting roles you want to play, and know the responsibilities that they entail. This not only helps avoid misunderstandings but also strengthens your bond as a family.

Balancing the demands of parenthood with your relationship can also prove challenging. While having a baby can mean less uninterrupted time for each other, it is important to set aside quality time with your partner. Nurturing a relationship requires consistent effort and should not be neglected after welcoming a baby.

Being a parent is a rewarding and life-changing experience filled with memorable moments and significant milestones. However, remember that it comes with hard work and a collaborative effort with your partner. Together, you will be ready to set out on this amazing adventure of parenthood!

This article is reviewed by Ms Helen Cruz Espina, Principal Lactation Consultant, Raffles Hospital