Get your Checklist below!
As a newborn photographer & mother of two, based in the picturesque countryside of Victoria, Australia, l've had the joy of capturing those precious early moments of countless little ones.
One thing I've learned is that preparing for a new arrival involves more than just setting up the nursery. There is so much to get organised & who new someone so little needed so many things! I’m sure you will receive lots of gifts for baby, but also things you will need to consider organising before baby arrives.
Here are the top 18 items to organise before your baby is born. You can also refer to your checklist below & print it out for handy reference.
1. Nappies: Whether you go for disposable or modern cloth, stock up! Babies go through a lot of these.
2. Baby Wipes: Gentle, unscented wipes are a must for nappy changes and quick clean-ups. You’ll find so many uses for these!
3. Onesies and Bodysuits: These are your baby's everyday wear. Look for soft, breathable fabrics with zippers, as you don’t want to be doing up press studs in the middle of the night.
4. Swaddle Blankets: Babies love to be swaddled for comfort and security. It makes them feel like they are back in the womb & helps control their startle reflex. You can buy them in light muslin for summer or flannelette/cotton for winter.
5. Breast Pump: If you're planning to breastfeed and occasionally pump, a good breast pump can be invaluable. You may even be able to hire or borrow one until you decide if it’s worth investing in a good one. Haakaa’s are also an easy way to express on a smaller scale. Don’t forget the breast pads to pop in your bra to catch any leaks. Some people also like to have formula on hand in case of slow milk coming in or other complications.
6. Baby Bathtub: Bathing a newborn can be nerve-wracking, but a small, contoured baby bathtub makes it much easier.
7. Nappy Bag: A well-equipped nappy bag makes outings with your baby much smoother. Make sure it's spacious and has compartments for organisation.
8. Baby Thermometer: Fevers can be scary, so having a thermometer on hand to monitor your baby's temperature is essential. It’s worth investing in a good one, so you can get a reading quickly & easily. You can also purchase pre-prepared first aid kits full of everything you will need, including a Thermometer from Rhythm First Aid.
9. Infant Car Seat: Make sure you have a properly installed infant car seat before bringing your baby home from the hospital. Many shops offer this service when you purchase a baby seat from them.
10. Baby Clothes in Various Sizes: Babies go through a lot of clothing in a day! Bibs can help protect clothing from little spit ups, but poo/wee explosions can happen frequently, so it’s best to be prepared. You can never be sure of babies size until after they are born, so have a range of clothing sizes on hand.
11. Burp Cloths: Babies are messy eaters (and burpers). Keep plenty of burp cloths nearby to clean up spills and spit-up.
12. Nursing Pillow (if breastfeeding): A good nursing pillow can make breastfeeding much more comfortable for both you and your baby.
13. Baby Nail Clippers: Baby nails can grow surprisingly fast and sharp. Trim them regularly to prevent scratching. Specialised baby nail clippers make the job so much easier!
14. Pacifiers: Some babies find comfort in pacifiers. Have a few on hand to see if they help soothe your little one.
15. Changing Mat/Table: Make nappy changes more comfortable for your baby (and you) with a padded changing mat. You can use this on the floor or have a dedicated change table.
16. Cot or Bassinet: Choosing a safe bassinet or cot for babies arrival is a must. Do your research & choose one that suits you. Sidecar bassinets make night times much easier for the first few months.
17. Baby carrier: A forward facing baby carrier makes life so much easier with a fussy baby, allowing you to still do a few jobs while keeping baby close. Look for ones with a newborn insert and good support for legs & hips. You can even learn to breastfeed in them!
18. Last but not least, book in your newborn photo shoot in your second trimester. You don’t want to miss out on capturing this precious, fleeting time in the haze of motherhood.
PLUS, Here are five things that you probably don’t need when buying for your newborn:
1.Baby Shoes: As adorable as those tiny shoes are, newborns don't need them. They're not walking yet & kick off any shoe or sock put on their feet! I speak from experience. So save your money for when they start toddling around.
2. Expensive Baby Clothes: While it's tempting to splurge on designer baby outfits, remember that babies grow incredibly fast. Opt for affordable, practical clothing that's easy to wash and comfortable for your little one.
3. Elaborate Nursery Decorations: Your baby won't care about an intricately themed nursery. Keep it simple and safe with the essentials like a cot, changing table, and a comfortable chair for feeding and cuddling. Recommendations in Australia are to have your baby in your room for the first 6 months.
4. Baby Food Processor: While making your own baby food can be a great option, you don't necessarily need a dedicated baby food processor. A regular blender or food processor works just fine for pureeing fruits and veggies.
5. Multiple High-Tech Baby Gadgets: It's easy to get caught up in the latest baby gadgets, but many of them are unnecessary. Stick to the basics like a reliable stroller, car seat, and bassinet. You'll save money and avoid cluttering your home with gadgets you don't really need.
Remember, the most important thing for your newborn is love, care, and attention, not expensive gadgets or designer clothes. Choose which you buy new & which ones you can save on by buying second hand. Don’t forget to look for items from a smoke free home if buying second hand. So many items for newborns are used but a few times before they grow out of them.
Preparing for a new baby can feel overwhelming at times, but remember to take it one step at a time and enjoy the journey.
Before you know it, you'll be holding your little one in your arms, cherishing every moment together.
Download your NEWBORN BABY READY CHECKLIST You can print it out or keep it handy on your phone. I hope it helps in the journey to parenthood.
From one parent to another, I wish you all the best on this incredible adventure that is parenthood xx
I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post. If you are lucky enough to be pregnant, check out my Maternity & Newborn photography, click here to see my portfolio of newborn images & here for my maternity images Click here. From Ballarat's best loved newborn & maternity photographer.
]]>
8 Surprising Factors that Could Affect Your Fertility.
With so many families struggling with Fertility, I wanted to share with you 8 surprising things that can impact fertility.
While some factors like age and genetics cannot be changed, there are many other things that may be affecting your fertility without you even realising it! With so many of my clients, friends & family struggling with fertility, some of these easy fixes came as a surprise.
Before we dive in, I just wanted to offer a quick friendly reminder that while this blog post provides helpful information, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor if you're having fertility issues. This blog post is meant to be helpful and informative but it's definitely not a substitute for medical advice.
Okay, now let's get started!
1. Stress:
Turns out that the daily stressors of adulting can actually impact your fertility. Stress can mess with ovulation, disrupt the menstrual cycle, and even decrease sperm count in men.
Think about finding fun ways to reduce your stress levels, such as meditation, yoga, walking in nature or having a catch up with a friend.
According to a study, women with high levels of alpha-amylase, a biomarker for stress, were found to have a lower chance of getting pregnant compared to women with lower levels of the biomarker (Lynch et al., 2014).
2. Lack of Sleep:
Getting enough sleep is essential for your overall health, and it also plays a significant role in fertility. Lack of sleep can disrupt hormonal balance, decrease sperm count, and even cause irregular periods.
A 2022 study found that women who slept for less than six hours per night had a higher risk of infertility compared to women who slept for seven to eight hours per night (Poli et al., 2018).
If you’re struggling to get enough sleep right now due to maybe having a new baby or your work schedule, maybe try having no screens in the bedroom, using a guided meditation & no caffeine after 3pm.
3. Poor Diet:
Eating a healthy, balanced diet is crucial for your fertility. Foods that are high in processed sugars and unhealthy fats can interfere with hormonal balance and decrease sperm count. We tend to snack on the wrong things if they are in the pantry, so try not to buy biscuits, snack food & soft drinks. Instead, try and seek out a local crowd who make clean snacks or whip up some bliss balls to snack on.
Many grocery stores now also offer pre-chopped or pre-washed produce fresh produce options that make healthy eating even easier!
4. Environmental Toxins:
Turns out, the environment we live in is full of toxins that can mess with our baby-making abilities, apart from our overall health.
From nasty pesticides to harmful phthalates, these sneaky little devils can affect both men and women. But hey, don't sweat it! Just opt for organic produce, natural cleaning products, and say goodbye to those plastic containers with BPA. Easy peasy, right?
We have been on a journey to cut out these environmental toxins since our daughter was born & is a rabbit hole that is very deep. My advice is to start with the things you can change & educate yourself as you go along the journey. From what we put on our skin, in our home environment, to what is in and on our food.
We love going to the local markets to pick up fresh organic produce & only use Bi-Carb & Vinegar for our cleaning. We stopped using perfumes & fragranced products & swapped them for good quality essential oils. My biggest tip is to read the labels!
You can read more on this study here, it’s quite interesting! https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6396757/
5. Alcohol:
While moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe, heavy drinking can have a significant impact on fertility. Heavy alcohol consumption can decrease sperm count, disrupt hormonal balance, and increase the risk of miscarriage.
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5504800/
6. Over-Exercising:
Sure, exercise is great for your overall health, but did you know that too much of it can actually be harmful to your fertility? Over-exercising can mess with your hormonal balance, decrease sperm count, and even cause irregular periods in women. So, don't go overboard with your fitness routine. Aim for a moderate exercise routine that includes a mix of cardio and strength training.
7. Poor dental health:
This one came as a surprise to me! As if we didn’t have enough reasons to go to the dentist regularly, now we can add “helping with fertility” to the list!
Poor dental health and gum disease have been linked to fertility problems in both men and women. Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation, which can affect fertility.
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8812457/
8. Vitamin D deficiency:
This sunshine vitamin is a big player with fertility, regulating hormone levels and making sure those little eggs and swimmers develop healthily. If you're lacking in vitamin D, your fertility might suffer!
So, get out there and soak up some sun or take a supplement.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22275473/ https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-Consumer/
Fertility is a complex issue, and there are many factors that can impact your ability to conceive. By being aware of these 8 lesser known things that can affect your fertility, you can take steps to improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Wishing you good luck in your fertility journey x
I hope you enjoyed reading 8 surprising factors that could affect your fertility. If you are lucky enough to be pregnant, check out my Maternity & Newborn photography, click here to see my portfolio of newborn images & here for my maternity images Click here. From Ballarat's best loved newborn & maternity photographer.
Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks? I totally get it, the anticipation can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. But don't worry, I've got your back! I've rounded up my top 6 tips for getting your home ready for your new arrival in just two weeks.
1. Batch cook
The thought of cooking a ton of food in one go can be intimidating, but batch cooking is a lifesaver, especially when you're getting ready to welcome your newborn into the world. You'll thank yourself later!
Here are a few simple steps to follow to get started:
Step 1: Plan out your meals. Choose recipes that are easy to make in large quantities, and make a list of all the ingredients you will need.
Step 2: Go grocery shopping. Try to do this a few days before you plan to start cooking, so you have everything you need on hand.
Step 3: Set aside a block of time to cook. Depending on how much you want to make, you may need several hours or even a full day to get everything done. Consider getting the help of a friend or family member to make it more fun!
Step 4: Cook in batches. Prepare one recipe at a time, and portion it out into individual servings. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and be sure to label everything with the name of the dish and the date it was made.
Step 5: Freeze your meals. Once everything is cooked and portioned out, place the containers in the freezer. They will keep for several months, so you can have a variety of meals ready to go whenever you need them.
By following these steps, you can create a stockpile of nutritious, homemade meals that will make the first few weeks with your newborn a little bit easier!
2. Declutter your home
Decluttering your home can sound like a daunting task, especially when you're expecting a newborn! But it's easier than you think to get your home ready for your newest addition.
Here are some steps to follow to declutter before baby arrives:
Step 1: Choose two or three rooms that you frequent most often (most likely this will be your living room, kitchen and bedroom).
Step 2: Start by noticing where things tend to pile up. For me, that’s always been around the kitchen bench. Find a new place for these items to go so they stop piling up!
Step 3: Let’s “Marie Kondo” your stuff! Let’s clear out what you don’t need or want anymore! Go through each drawer, cabinet and shelf and ask yourself, “Do I still need/want this item?”
Step 4: Make 3 piles, “Keep, Donate, Toss” and put everything into 1 of those piles.
Step 5: Organise the “keep” items, throw away the “toss” items (or recycle if possible) and give away the “donate.”
I love to de-clutter regularly, as it can get out of control so quickly! Even if it’s just a drawer or the kitchen bench, I always feel SO much better when I declutter my space. It is always worth the effort for me!
Turn on some music and make it fun! Ask a friend to come over and help.
By following these simple steps over the course of just a few days or a weekend, you can quickly create a stress-free and comfortable newborn-ready environment in your own home. Trust me! You're going to need the extra room.
3. Stock up on essentials (& not just baby essentials)
You’re likely already thinking about things like diapers, wipes, bottles, etc.
But have you considered stocking up on regular household items like paper towels, toilet paper, dishwasher soap...?
My best tip would be to do a small stockpile of these regular items. You could also setup an order of milk or other essentials from a local shop like Wilsons fruit & veg, to keep you from running out those first few months with your newborn!
4. Put together a baby care basket
A baby care basket, or sometimes called a “downstairs” basket is a lifesaver those first few weeks home with a new baby.
Oftentimes, you’re in one space with the baby for most of the day and find yourself “trapped” under a sleeping baby without the supplies you need!
A baby care basket can solve that for you. Basically, it’s a container you can keep in each room of the house that has all the essentials for baby so you’re not running around from room to room getting the things you need.
Usually, the baby care basket includes nappies, wipes, burp cloths, extra clothes, pacifiers, and anything else you might need for the baby frequently.
I also like to think about including things for mumma like nipple cream, breast pads, lipgloss, etc.
In addition to keeping you from running from room to room, a baby care basket will help you stay organised and keep your home clutter free. You can just bring it along with you or leave it near your favourite spot.
5. Light your home the right way
Maybe this is important to me because I’m a photographer, I don’t know 😉
but lighting is one I don’t see talked about too often!!
Proper lighting can help create a calm and comfortable atmosphere for both you and your baby.
First, look at the rooms you’ll spend the most time in (typically kitchen, living room, bedrooms). You'll want to consider the type of lighting you have in each room.
● Do you want to add lamp options (yes, even in the kitchen)?
● Under cabinet lights?
● How about a dimmer switch for the overhead lights?
● What about small wall plug in lights to help light the way in the halls for
the middle of the night?
The right lighting can help frustrating or overly stimulating situations feel much more calm and peaceful.
We found that the additional of salt lamps & lower light options was so much calmer than our harsh overhead lighting, which when in our arms, bubs was looking straight up into! It made our whole home feel so much calmer.
We also found the addition of a night light was just enough to change & feed bubs without waking us up too much.
Finally, safety is also a consideration when it comes to lighting. Make sure that all cords and outlets are safely tucked away and secured to prevent tripping or electrical hazards.
6. Prepare YOUR wardrobe
Of course we’re thinking a lot about how to prepare for the baby, but don’t forget about yourself!
Preparing your wardrobe for the first 2-3 weeks postpartum is an important step in getting ready for the arrival of your new baby.
Comfort and functionality are key during this time! You'll want to focus on loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that can accommodate changes in your body shape and allow for easy breastfeeding access if you plan to breastfeed.
Consider investing in a few nursing bras, loose-fitting pants or leggings, and comfortable tops that are easy to pull up or down. Some women also find it helpful to have a couple of nursing-friendly dresses on hand for a dressier option. I found a singlet under any loose fitting top, gave easy access, without having to reveal everything. Especially with all the guests in those early days!
Another thing to keep in mind is that you will likely still be bleeding for a few weeks, so having a few pairs of comfortable and absorbent underwear or postpartum pads on hand is a good idea.
Remember, the key to preparing your wardrobe for the first few weeks postpartum is to prioritise comfort and practicality. By doing so, you can focus on bonding with your new baby without worrying about your clothing or physical discomfort!
I hope reading ‘How to get your house newborn-ready in just two weeks’ has given you some solid ideas! If you’re still looking for a Ballarat newborn photographer, click here to see my portfolio of newborn images.
]]>
You can bring your own music or sounds to the delivery room.
Music can have a powerful impact on our emotions, and it can help create a calm and soothing environment for you during labor. You can bring your own playlist, a sound machine, or even your own voice to help you relax and focus during labor.
Question for your doctor: Can I bring music to the birthing room?
The power of the mind - visualisation and other relaxation techniques can help during labor.
Visualisation and relaxation techniques such as hypnobirthing, yoga, and meditation can help you stay calm and focused during labor. It can also help to lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which can make labor more manageable. There are quite a few hypnobirthing classes in Ballarat. I will put a link below.
Question: Is there anything I can do now to learn how to cope with labor?
You don't have to give birth in the hospital.
Giving birth at home or in a birth centre can provide a more relaxed and intimate setting for the birth of your baby. It allows you to have more control over the birthing process and can provide a more personalised experience. This option is safe for low-risk pregnancies and has similar or better outcomes compared to hospital births. There are midwives available in Ballarat to facilitate home birth.
Question for your doctor: Would he/she support you and work with a home birth midwife if you decided to go this route?
Epidurals are not the only form of pain relief available during labor.
Epidurals are a common form of pain relief during labor, but they are not the only option available. Other forms of pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and natural methods such as hypnobirthing, acupuncture and massage. These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.
Question for your doctor: What other pain relief options do they see often that’s effective other than epidural?
Birthing pools can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during labor.
Warm water can help ease the pain and discomfort of contractions, and it also allows you to move around more easily, which can help the baby move down the birth canal. Birthing pools can also provide a sense of privacy and intimacy during labor.
Question for your doctor: Are there birth pools at the hospital or another way I can use water to relax?
Using essential oils to help with relaxation during labor.
Lavender is the best oil for delivery room atmosphere. It is very calming and soothing & can bring a spirit of gentleness to the delivery room. Peppermint when inhaled, can help reduce anxiety and hypertension. When in labor, I inhaled both straight from the bottle & it helped immensely in calming & focusing my mind. The essential midwife by Stephanie Fritz is a great reference if you're thinking of using essential oils & knowing which ones are safe.
Question for your doctor: Can I use a diffuser with essential oils in the deliver room?
Birthing positions - there are many different positions that can help make the birthing process easier.
There are various birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or even lying down. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you.
Question for your doctor: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby?
Doulas are a great support and aren’t only used for birth.
A doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and physical support to a woman and her partner during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum period. A doula can help you with relaxation techniques, provide emotional support, and advocate for your wishes during birth. There are many amazing Doulas available in Ballarat. Links below!
Question for your doctor: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?
You can eat and drink during labor, if you want to.
Having a light snack can help keep your energy levels up. It's important to listen to your body and your healthcare provider during labor, and to make sure you are well hydrated and nourished.
Question: Under what circumstances will I not be allowed to eat or drink in labor?
Cesarean sections are not as scary as they seem.
C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses will take great care of you and your baby during the procedure. It's important to remember that a c-section is a surgical procedure and there are risks associated with it, but it can also save the lives of both mother and baby in certain situations.
Question: In what circumstances do you perform c-sections?
So, there you have it, mumma. You're armed with some new information that will hopefully help you feel more confident and excited about your birth! I hope that reading - 10 secrets to a more comfortable delivery has given you some solid ideas.
Want a checklist to take to your next appointment? Download it for free here:
Download our 'Questions to ask your doctor’ at your next appointment.
Want more info ~ Local Ballarat references ~ people to connect with!
@the_essential_midwife ~ Essential Oils for Pregnancy, Birth & Babies
@untangledliving ~ Ebony Hamilton - Specialist in Pre & Postnatal Massage, Doula, Education
@ballaratmidwifery ~ Katie - Private midwife, Hypnobirthing practitioner, Homebirth
@midwifelauretta ~ Lauretta - Birth education & support, Acuneedling by a midwife
Join the Magic & wonder with our 2022 Christmas mini sessions in Ballarat
Ballarat Christmas mini sessions for children from birth to 16 years old
Join the magic & wonder of our 2022 Christmas sessions!
]]>
]]>
]]>
]]>
