Guest Blogger: Moore From Katie

I am glad to have Katie guest blogging today! Her blog,  Moore from Katie showcases her many life passions...cooking, flea market finds, fashion, and being a mom! I hope the article Katie has written will help benefit a few new mommas. Thanks again Katie!

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Don't Forget these Tips Before Baby Gets Here: Get Your Medical Files in Order

Expecting mothers make ample preparations before their baby arrives, but some rather important preparations can easily be overlooked in the process. The nursery is often perfectly decorated and the hospital bag packed to perfection, but important medical considerations are often neglected. Before a woman goes into labor, she should ensure that all of her medical records are in order and that medical consideration, related to the birth of her baby, has been taken into account.

Medical Records

It’s a good idea for a woman to get a complete account of her current medical records before bringing her child into the world. She can update her medical records with information about her family's health history, including her blood type and any allergies that she has to medication can save time in case of an emergency. She should also list any pertinent medical information regarding previous pregnancies and any problems that other children had when they were born or early in their development. By having all of this information collected and made available to her medical team in advance, it will be easier for them to outline an optimal delivery plan for mom
What to Do with the Records

If a woman knows which hospital she will be delivering at, she can submit a copy of her records to the hospital. She can also supply a copy of the records to her obstetrician's office, who would be the most important medical professional to have that information since she will be visiting the obstetrician frequently. If an expecting mother will be traveling around the time that she expects to deliver, she should also carry a copy of her medical records in her hospital bag.

Birthing Plan

Another important document to include with medical records is the birthing plan. An expecting mom can create her own customized birthing plan that outlines the type of environment that she wants to be surrounded by during her labor. The birthing plan should also indicate the type of pain medication that the mother wants after she evaluates the pros and cons of each option. Although the birthing plan is a document, it’s important to remember that it is not concrete. In the event a medical emergency occurs during birth the medical staff will do what they must. The health of mom and baby are always the number one priority in any delivery.

Other Considerations

Other important medical factors pertaining to the arrival of the baby may not be top of mind for mom-to-be. Pregnant mothers should be prepared to consider the suggestion of a C-section even if they planned on a natural birth. They may also need to consider whether permitting the use of forceps or an episiotomy is a decision that they should make if necessary.

Expectant mothers are often unaware of the potential value  cord blood banking could provide Cord blood stem cells have the potential to treat some life-threatening diseases, such as certain types of cancer, blood disorders and disorders that are associated with the immune system. Collecting the cord blood can only take place immediately after birth, so an expectant mother should research her options about cord blood banking and make and informed decision before she actually goes into labor. Many mothers may also consider nursing their new baby because of the various health benefits, but may not consider what to do if they encounter difficulty with the process.

Working through these medical decisions and preparations well in advance of delivery day will alleviate stress and anxiety. That way, a mother can focus on the delivery and bringing her newborn into the world.

"This article was written by Katie Moore. Katie is an active writer within the blogging community who discusses maternity, motherhood, prenatal health, childbirth and other topics within this niche.  If you have any questions or would like to connect with Katie please contact by visiting her blog, Moore From Katie or her twitter @moorekm26."