Breastmilk is the best for babies. The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Unnecessary introduction of bottle feeding or other food and drinks will have a negative impact on breastfeeding. After six months of age, infants should receive age-appropriate foods while breastfeeding continues for up to two years of age or beyond. Consult your doctor before deciding to use infant formula or if you have difficulty breastfeeding.
Try not to worry if you're unsure about what to prepare before heading to the hospital for childbirth. If it's a private facility, in most cases, you only need to bring your personal items. However, parents advise to complete the preparations by 8th month of pregnancy.
This is because the expectant mother is prepared to give birth at any time after this month. It's important to note that the preparation before birth varies between private and government hospitals. Private hospitals typically provide almost everything, but mothers can always check with the hospital if they are unsure.
The first essential item that comes to mind is baby clothes, including shirts, pajamas, gloves, hats, and socks. While private hospitals can provide many items, some may not be available, such as:
To prepare for your baby’s birth certificate, parents must report the birth within 15 days after the child's birth. Reporting later than the specified 15-day deadline will result in fines imposed according to the law. The necessary documents to prepare at the time of birth include:
After a lengthy hospital birth, the first day back home is a time to relax and allow your body to recover while attending to your little one. To ensure a smooth return, consider planning and preparing beforehand. If you lack assistance, this might involve readying frozen meals or other conveniences for when you return home with your newborn after giving birth.