22 Hudson Valley Parent
Q
2012 Baby Guide
so you can eat, drink and do as
you please.
14. What are my pain control
options? A good pain control plan
takes your medical situation and
preferences into account. If you
want to skip all pain control
options, make sure your doctor
knows your wishes ahead of time.
15. When should I ask for
anesthesia? Every hospital has its
own guidelines, so speak to your
doctor before the big day If you
wait too long, the anesthesiologist
may be busy in the operating
room when you need relief.
Get intel from your labor nurse.
She knows the system.
16. Who will attend my birth?
Find out who is on call when your
primary healthcare provider is off
duty. Delivery-day surprises add
unnecessary stress.
17. Could you recommend a
lactation specialist? "Several
moms who want to breastfeed their
baby end up quitting in the first
four weeks, because of sore nipples,
concerns about milk supply or
latching difficulties," said Donna
Bruschi, lactation consultant at
New Baby New Paltz. If you're
planning on breastfeeding,
be sure to ask your doctor for
recommendations on lactation
consultants in your area.
18. Should I restrict activities?
The adrenalin rush of new
motherhood may cause you to do
too much too soon. Before you
head home with your newborn,
find out whether you should limit
exercise and sex. Set healthy and
reasonable expectations.
MUST ASK QUESTIONS
(Continued from Page 21)