There are tonnes of lists and blog posts on what to do before you give birth so I thought I would mix it up and do 8 Things You Should NOT do Before Giving Birth. This obviously what I believe personally and not something you actually need to follow, apart from number 1, please don’t do it.

1. Don’t shave your vagina. Haha seriously. Everyone worries about their unkept vagina before they give birth but truth is; no one who’s looking down there is actually looking down there, if that makes sense. All they are concerned with is how you are dilating and how baby is. And trust me; having it all grow back with an episiotomy scar healing is NOT the one. Itch central. You can trim but don’t shave.
2. Don’t pack a ‘cute’ outfit in your hospital bag. Trust me, comfort all the way. I for some stupid reason decided to pack jeans, a fitted top and a leather jacket. Silly silly Katie.
3. Don’t underestimate how much you’re going to bleed. This is something no one talks about but you have the mother of all periods after baby arrives and no, Always Ultra will NOT be your friend. I packed one packet of my trusty Always Ultra and I pissed through them (quite literally at one point) in a matter of hours. The hospital gave you lots of the giant doorstop pads but I’d highly recommend picking some up yourself too.
4. Don’t forget the snacks. We forgot our ready made snacks when I went into hospital and after a 4 day labour and theatre for a forceps delivery I really could have done with a ham sandwich and some doritos. The hospital vending machine churned out a Tuna Crunch sandwich for me and it was not great.
5. Don’t tell everyone you’re in labour. I personally didn’t do this myself as my waters popped and my contractions went from mild discomfort to almighty hell in a matter of minutes so I could barely breathe let alone text anyone. But I have had friends message to say “I’m in Labour” and then 2 hours later “Back home, braxton hicks”. Wait until you KNOW, before you’re let everyone else know. You will know, trust me.
6. Don’t forget your dressing gown. Again not something I did but a woman in the same ward as me did and its not a great look wandering around like John Wayne with your leaky nips soaking through your pj’s.
7. Don’t expect too much from yourself. It’s going to be the most life changing moment of your life and you are forever told how to react. Forget it and live in the moment. I had post natal depression myself and although I cared for Elara like crazy and had this fierce need to protect her I didn’t have that instant crazy love like I have now. I was so scared that I’d done something wrong and someone would take her away if I admitted anything but truth is; A lot of women struggle to attach to their baby straight away. It’s so utterly overwhelming.
8. Don’t forget your fancy products. After you’ve given birth you will want to shower. Trust me. And this is the perfect time to use little minis of your favourite haircare etc. Here is an amazing selection if your after some. Your baby is attracted to your smell so don’t use anything too strongly scented on your body but a quick wash with your favourite mini shower oil will have you feeling amazing.

Would you add anything to the list? I love hearing about other peoples experiences. If you want more helpful advice I found this blog post by Claire really helpful. If you’d like to read more honest thoughts, here is the link to my 10 Honest Truths About Being Pregnant during a Pandemic.

Katie x