Make Life Easier Post-Birth

Pregnancy is such an exciting time, but it’s also important to think ahead to make life easier post-birth and after baby arrives. The first few weeks with a newborn can be wonderful, but also challenging. The good news is, there’s plenty you can do during pregnancy to make those early days a little easier and less stressful for you and your family.

At Beyond the Bump, we’ve got you covered with The Birth & Baby Academy, we have a whole section dedicated to preparing for life after baby arrives. We offer tips and advice on everything from postpartum recovery to baby care, so you feel confident and supported every step of the way.

Get Your Home Ready

The first few weeks after baby arrives can feel like a whirlwind. Having a home that’s prepped and organised will help make things run more smoothly.

Stock up on baby essentials: It’s easy to get excited about baby clothes, but don’t forget the basics! Think nappies, wipes, baby blankets, a safe sleep space, and other key items.
Prepare freezer meals: Having a stash of healthy, ready-to-go meals in your freezer will save you time and energy during those first days when you’re adjusting to life with a newborn.
Set up baby’s space: Whether you’re setting up a nursery or creating a cosy corner in your room, make sure baby has a designated space with everything they’ll need, from clothes to feeding supplies.

These little steps now can make all the difference when you’re sleep-deprived and focused on adjusting to your new life with baby.

Learn About Baby Care

One of the most helpful things you can do during pregnancy is learn about baby care, so you feel prepared when your baby arrives. That’s where we come in! The Birth & Baby Academy offers comprehensive guidance on newborn care, including tips on feeding, nappy changing, safe sleep, and more.

Join The Birth & Baby Academy to learn the basics of caring for your newborn, from setting up a safe sleep environment to understanding newborn behaviour.
Get familiar with baby care essentials like swaddling, feeding positions, and calming techniques.

Knowing what to expect and having a few practical skills under your belt will give you confidence and reduce anxiety when baby arrives.

Make Life Easier Post-Birth & Build Your Support Network

Your support system is one of your most important resources during pregnancy and after baby arrives. The more you can set up before baby arrives, the easier the transition will be.

Talk with your partner about roles and expectations: Having clear communication with your partner about who will do what can help reduce stress. This includes setting up who will handle night feeds, chores, and baby care responsibilities.
Reach out to family and friends: Let them know how they can help—whether it’s running errands, cooking meals, or simply offering emotional support.
Consider professional help: A postpartum doula or lactation consultant can provide invaluable support during the early days and beyond.

Having the right people around you can make all the difference in how you feel during those first weeks.

Prepare for Your Own Recovery

It’s easy to focus on baby’s needs, but don’t forget about yourself, most antenatal courses will brush over Postnatal recovery but not The Birth & Baby Academy, we know (personally) just how important looking after YOU is for you, your baby & your family, understanding and supporting your Postpartum Recovery is essential! Preparing for your postpartum recovery during pregnancy can help you heal and adjust more comfortably after birth.

Prepare your recovery space: Whether it’s a comfy chair for nursing or a cosy corner to rest, make sure you have a space where you can recover and rest.
Stock up on postpartum essentials: Think maternity pads, comfortable clothes, perineal care items, and anything else that will help you feel comfortable.
Learn about recovery: Understanding your options for pain relief, recovery, and self-care during the postpartum period will help you feel more confident.

Your body has just done an incredible job growing your baby, so make sure to care for yourself during your recovery.

Focus on Your Mindset

We know how overwhelming the transition to parenthood can be, and it’s easy to get caught up in all the things you need to do. But remember: your mindset is just as important as your physical preparations.

Practice self-care: Take time for yourself during pregnancy. Rest, relax, and nurture your mental health as much as possible.
Prepare for the emotional journey: The postpartum period can be full of ups and downs, so it’s important to be kind to yourself and know that it’s okay to ask for help.
Set realistic expectations: Things won’t always go perfectly, and that’s okay! Focus on taking things one step at a time, and give yourself grace as you adjust.

Taking care of yourself now will make it easier to adjust and thrive after baby arrives.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for life after baby arrives doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By making small but thoughtful preparations during pregnancy, like stocking up on baby essentials, preparing freezer meals, learning about baby care, and setting up a strong support network, you’ll feel more confident and ready when baby finally arrives.

And remember, The Birth & Baby Academy is here to help every step of the way. From learning about newborn care to preparing for postpartum recovery, we’ve got all the resources you need to make your journey a little easier.

▶️ Join The Birth & Baby Academy to access all of our modules on pregnancy, birth, and baby care.

▶️ Download our free "Taking Control of Your Birth" video to start making empowered, informed decisions about your birth experience today.