Women's Center

Childbirth

Check with your employer or human resources department to see if some form of paternity leave is available.
Seek out helpers. Grandparents are great; if you can afford hired help after the baby arrives, make it hired household help rather than baby care.
Start looking for child care before the baby arrives. The search for the right care provider can take months.
Visit or call the hospital several weeks before the baby's due date and talk with the admissions or business office about finances and the cost of birthing. Know what your maternity coverage does and does not cover.
Be sure you take a tour of the maternity department.
Buy a baby car seat before the baby arrives.
Make plans with your partner for letting you know when labor starts and where you should meet, such as at home, or at the hospital.
Keep your car ready to go at all times, and make a practice run to the hospital or birthing center several weeks before the due date. Know alternate routes.
Have your bag packed and ready to go. Include change of shirt; snacks, juice or sodas; comfortable pillow for mom, toothbrush; tape player and music; camera and film.