Health Care for Your Baby
Deciding who will take care of your baby's health is one of the most important things you need to do before her or his arrival. Plan in advance — don't wait until after you baby is born to choose a doctor! Babies need frequent check-ups and immunizations (shots), and sometimes get sick, so you will want to find a doctor you like and trust to care for your child. You might want to call and request an interview with a few pediatricians; this is commonly done. Some area hospitals and health insurance plans can provide you with specific information on pediatricians, such as where they trained, the number of years they have been in practice, and any specialty areas. You might also want to find out about their available office hours and how they handle concerns and emergencies after office hours. And, it always helps to talk with other parents for referrals.
Just like you, your baby will need health insurance coverage. If you are worried about the cost of health care or have limited funds, there are programs available for children who do not have health insurance.
Deciding on health care and insurance before your child's birth saves you time and gives you peace of mind, because a doctor will be there when your baby needs care. If you deliver your baby at a hospital where your chosen pediatrician normally sees patients, he or she will see the baby right after the delivery. If you deliver at a hospital where the pediatrician does not normally see patients, you can tell your doctor and nurses and they will make sure the baby is seen by a hospital staff pediatrician right after the birth. When you are discharged from the hospital, you can call your own pediatrician to schedule a visit within a few days. Remember to bring your baby's medical records that will be given to you before leaving the hospital.
Around the Home
Your baby is on the way, and there is a lot to think about. Besides making
sure that you have baby furniture and clothing for your new son or daughter,
you'll want to check that your home is safe. Make sure there are no loose
ends, sharp edges or small harmful parts that will be near your baby.
Also make sure you have fire alarms or carbon monoxide detectors (if you
have gas appliances) in your home so you can protect your baby in the
event of an emergency.
Baby Shopping List
You have so much to prepare before your new baby is born. You may want
to begin purchasing clothing, a car seat, and furniture for the baby so
you are fully prepared for your new arrival. Also don't forget about all
the items your new baby will need on a daily basis, such as diapers, wash
cloths, burp cloths, and more! If you are having a baby shower, your friends
and family may also ask you what items they can help you with. We recommend
talking to other new parents about the items they purchased for their
babies, and the brands that they recommend. There are so many baby items
and different brands to choose from, that it may be helpful to get some
expert advice, so that you will not be stressed about these decisions.
The National Women's Health Information Center (NWHIC) has provided the following list of items a newborn baby will need to help you in your shopping efforts, so you can concentrate on staying healthy, resting, and being excited for your new baby's birth. We have also included links to web pages with safety information about those products that may pose a risk to your baby if safety guidelines are not followed. If you have more questions about the safety of baby products, we recommend that you ask your baby's doctor. The most important thing to remember is that your baby only needs food, shelter and you. So don't be overwhelmed by the numerous baby products available.
To view suggested list of items for a new baby, click on our BABY SHOPPING LIST
