This editorial series, Birth Stories, is brought to you by UnityPoint Health and Des Moines Mom. UnityPoint Health provides world-class prenatal and postpartum care in Des Moines. All 5 original articles from the Birth Stories series can be found here.
“I came to parenting the way most of us do —
knowing nothing and trying to learn everything.”
~Mayim Bialik
Parenting is simultaneously the most difficult and the most rewarding thing many people will ever do. For some, the path to parenting is smooth; for others, it is filled with roadblocks. No matter how you became a parent, UnityPoint Health – Des Moines is here to support you every step of the way.
Pregnancy Care
Whether you are already pregnant or you are just beginning to consider it, UnityPoint Health – Des Moines can help you find the obstetrical (OB) or midwife care that is right for you. If possible, take your time choosing an OB provider. Consider asking:
- What is their general philosophy? Will they be supportive of your personal preferences and cultural needs?
- Do they take your insurance?
- Where do they deliver?
- Will that provider deliver your baby, or are they part of a group where a different provider delivers your baby?
Before Baby is Born
Once you’ve picked your OB provider, there are a few other things you will want to check off your to-do list:
- Learn all you can about pregnancy, childbirth and infant care in our birth and baby care classes. Topics include what to expect during delivery, comfort measures during childbirth, breastfeeding, how to bathe your baby, and so much more!
- Familiarize yourself with the birth center where you will deliver. Whether you have a vaginal delivery or a c-section, all births are important, and we want all birthing parents to feel at home in our facilities. Visit our website to view our virtual tours, complete your pre-registration paperwork, use our packing list for your hospital bag, and so much more.
- Learn how to keep baby safe at home and on the road. Attend a baby safety class for home safety information, and use this online form to make an appointment with a certified car seat technician to have your child’s car seat installed correctly in your vehicle before baby arrives!
- Choose a provider for your baby. Keep these questions in mind as you search:
- Do you want a pediatrician or a family practice provider?
- Does their office take your child’s insurance?
- What are their office hours?
- What do they suggest you do in an emergency or after hours?
- Does their personality and general philosophy match with your parenting style?
- Find more information about choosing the right provider for your baby.
Postpartum Support
The time after baby comes home is often referred to as postpartum, your babymoon or the 4th trimester. Many parents experience big and often overwhelming emotions during this time. Although scary, this emotional roller coaster is called the baby blues and is completely normal.
- If those big feelings persist after the first three weeks, consider speaking to your OB or midwife provider or primary care provider.
- They may talk with you about postpartum depression or anxiety and work with you to find strategies that work for you, such as medication, counseling and support groups.
For more information about how UnityPoint can help, check out their free educational videos and learn more about their behavioral health services.
However you become a parent, UnityPoint Health – Des Moines is here to support you every step of the way!
