Tips for Parents: Support for Your Pregnancy, Birth & Postpartum Journey

1. Trust Your Instincts

No one knows your body or your baby like you do. If something feels important, speak up—your voice matters.

2. Build Your Support Team

Surround yourself with people—partners, friends, family, and professionals—who help you feel safe, informed, and respected.

3. Ask All the Questions

Whether it’s about procedures, comfort measures, or newborn care, you deserve answers that make sense to you. There are no “silly” questions.

4. Prepare, But Stay Flexible

Birth plans are empowering tools, not rigid scripts. Know your options, set your preferences, and stay open to how your journey unfolds.

5. Prioritize Rest

Growing a baby and healing afterward takes energy. Rest whenever you can—sleep, quiet time, or simply pausing to breathe.

6. Nourish Your Body

Stay hydrated, eat balanced meals, and listen to your cravings and cues. Your body is doing something incredible.

7. Practice Comfort Techniques

Breathing, visualization, movement, massage, warm baths, and positioning can make a huge difference during pregnancy and labor.

8. Communicate With Your Partner

Share your hopes, worries, and expectations. The more connected you are, the stronger your support will feel.

9. Lean Into Emotional Support

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Talk to your doula, partner, or a trusted friend about how you’re doing—emotionally as well as physically.

10. Plan for the Fourth Trimester

Prepare meals, organize help, and set realistic expectations for life with a newborn. Healing and bonding take time.

11. Remember You Are Not Alone

Parenthood is a journey with many paths. A doula is there to guide you, support you, and remind you that you are capable and strong