Home & Personal Readiness

Whether you're a first time or experienced parent, a few tips for getting ready for your bundle of joy can't hurt. Here are a few pointers that can make your experience smoother. First and foremost, take care of yourself and your baby during pregnancy by keeping appointments with your OB/GYN provider, eating well, and avoiding certain activities.

Marshall has several classes about preparing for childbirth and parenting. For more information or to register for classes, click here or call 530-626-2990.

Educate Yourself with Books and Articles

There are many excellent books to consider to help you prepare for your birthing experience. We recommend:

• What to Expect When You’re Expecting, by Eisenberg, et al
• The Nursing Mother’s Companion, by K. Higgins

Prepare for Breastfeeding

If you plan to breastfeed your baby there are several things you can do to prepare for the best experience possible.

For questions or concerns about breastfeeding please call Marshall's Breastfeeding Support Services at 530-626-2835. If you have flat or inverted nipples, it is a good idea to contact Breastfeeding Support Services before your delivery.

We encourage you to ask questions. Talk to family members or friends who have breastfed, childbirth class teachers, lactation consultants, nurses and doctors. Talk to other mothers who have breastfed their babies successfully and they can help you understand what to expect.

Rest assured, when you're here with us, our experienced lactation consultants will help you every step of the way. We're proud to support Baby Friendly Hospital practices and have one of the best breastfeeding initiation and success rates in the state.

Logistics and Supplies

2 Months Before Due Date

• Prepare your nursery with furniture, clothing, etc. - wash baby clothes so you don't have to later - you won't have time.
• Plan your transportation to and from the hospital.
• Purchase a car seat and learn how it works - you can't leave the hospital without one.
• If you plan to breastfeed, you probably will want a breast pump. Now's the time to buy one and learn how it works.

1 Month Before Due Date

• Install car seat in your vehicle. Many fire stations will do this for you to ensure proper installation.

Pack Your Bag for the Hospital

• Clothing, including nightgowns, robe, slippers, nursing bras with good support, socks and underwear (for breastfeeding, plan on front closure clothing options)
• Special toiletry items - we provide the basics, but if you want anything of your own, you may bring it
• Eyewear and supplies - if you wear contacts, you may want to bring your glasses too
• Hair accessories
• A couple of personal items are okay - your own pillow or book
• Maternity clothes for the trip home and comfortable shoes

Pack Your Baby's Bag

• Prewashed clothing for going home
• Bootie socks for hands and feet
• Car window shade to block sun

Pack Support Person's Bag

• Change of comfortable clothing
• Toiletry items
• Phone or watch with a second hand - for timing contractions
• Tennis balls for back massage
• Box for bringing home flowers and gifts received
• Snacks and beverages
• Cash/change for vending and food
• Contact list for news sharing
• Magazines, books or other reading materials
• Hard candy to give mom during labor

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Marshall at 530-626-2638.