Due Dates: The inside scoop.
If you’re reaching the end of your pregnancy, chances are you’re anxiously counting down the days until your due date. But despite the best efforts of doctors and midwives to give an accurate due date, it is only an estimate! So while it feels like you should be rushing around and doing everything possible to get your babe to come, it’s equally important to let your body rest for the huge transformation it's about to go through. For expectant parents in Red Deer, having a birth worker or doula support can be a great resource for helping to stay calm, rested, and emotionally prepared as the big day approaches.
Why Due Dates are Just an Estimate:
As expectant parents, allll of the different emotions start to swirl around as you get closer and closer to your due date. However, it's important to remember that due dates are simply an estimate, not an exact science.
The most commonly used method for determining an estimated due date is something called Naegele's rule. This method assumes that the mother has a 28-day menstrual cycle and ovulates on the 14th day of that cycle. To calculate the estimated due date using Naegele's rule, you add 7 days to the first day of the last menstrual period and count forward 9 months.
While this method helps give a general timeline for the pregnancy, it's important to note that it's not always accurate. Additionally, some women may have irregular menstrual cycles or may not ovulate on day 14. This can make calculating the due date more difficult. Dating ultrasounds can also be used to estimate the due date, but even they can have a margin of error. Depending on the quality of the ultrasound and the positioning of the baby, the due date can be off by a few days or even up to a week.
The main takeaway is that due dates should be viewed as a rough estimate, not a set date. While it's exciting to anticipate the arrival of your little one, it's important to keep in mind that babies come when they're ready, not according to a specific due date. So try to trust that your body and baby will know when it's time!
Taking Care of Yourself
I totally empathize that at this point, you are more than likely feeling sore, you’re ready for your baby to get out of you, and you just want to soak up the baby snuggles; but you are almost done, I promise!
One of the most important things you can do for yourself during this time is to stay rested (as much as you're able to). Part of staying relaxed and rested also means taking the time to honour your changing body and taking care of yourself, both emotionally and physically. This could look like taking a warm bath, doing prenatal yoga or stretches from Spinning Babies, getting some maternity photos with your partner or practicing some of those deep breathing techniques your doula already taught you!
Setting Boundaries
Your family means well when they text every day asking if you've gone into labour yet or if the baby is here, but constant questioning can become overwhelming, stressful and sometimes annoying! Especially if you are already feeling like the last few weeks of pregnancy have been dragging on. This is where setting boundaries can come in handy. Let your family and friends know that you promise to let them know when the baby arrives and that you appreciate their excitement but need some space.
If you have a birth worker, reach out to them and see if they can help figure out which boundaries are important to you and your partner. They can provide support and advice on how to communicate your needs to your loved ones, while also giving you space to relax and focus on yourselves. By setting boundaries, you can reduce stress and feel more in control during this exciting and unpredictable time.
Keeping Your Mind Busy
Keeping your mind busy can help you deal with the more difficult and anxious feelings surrounding your impending labour. Here are a few things that I always suggest you try:
Do something fun with your partner - You're both probably feeling a mix of emotions, so why not do something enjoyable together? It could be something as simple as going for a walk or trying out a new recipe. This is a great time to reconnect before the baby arrives.
Do some postpartum meal prep - Preparing some freezer meals now can save you time and energy later on. Plus, it's a productive way to spend your time and keep your mind focused on something other than your due date. You can find some great recipe ideas on websites like Pinterest, or reach out to me and I'll send you some of my favourites!
Prepare your hospital bag - This is something that can easily be done in advance. Make a list of everything you'll need for yourself, your partner, and your baby, and start packing your bag. This way, you'll be ready to go when the time comes. Need some tips? Check out my Instagram! @kayleewulff_
Make a labour playlist - Many people find music to be a helpful tool during labour. Take some time to curate a playlist that will help you feel calm and relaxed during contractions. This isn't to say that the music itself needs to be calm and relaxed, it can be any genre you love or a mix of it all (anything that gets that oxytocin flowin!)
Wondering how I can help you as your Birth Worker?
Using my tried and true methods ;) Find out more: