Building Your Prenatal and Postpartum Support Team in Calgary: A Comprehensive Guide for Moms

Expecting a baby is one of the most exciting times in your life, but it can also be overwhelming. That's why having a solid support team is essential. From medical professionals to holistic practitioners, friends, and family, each member of your support team plays a vital role in ensuring you have a healthy and joyful journey into parenthood. Bump Prenatal and Postpartum Wellness in Calgary is here to help you build the perfect support team.

A good support team can help you have precious moments with your baby

Let’s dive into who you might include and how to manage relationships with those around you.

Four Main Useful Professionals for Your Support Team

1. Obstetrician or Ob/Gyn (an Obstetrician / Gynaecologist)

An obstetrician is a medical doctor specializing in pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They monitor your pregnancy to ensure both you and your baby are healthy. They can:

• Perform routine check-ups and ultrasounds.

• Address any medical concerns or complications.

• Deliver your baby, whether through vaginal birth or cesarean section.

2. Pediatrician

A pediatrician is a medical doctor who manages the health of your baby, including physical, behavioral, and mental health issues. They are crucial for:

• Conducting newborn screenings and vaccinations.

• Monitoring your baby’s growth and development.

• Offering guidance on feeding, sleep, and overall infant care.

3. Birth Doula (sometimes called a Prenatal Doula)

A birth doula provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth. They can:

• Help you develop a birth plan.

• Provide comfort measures during labor (like massage and breathing techniques).

• Offer reassurance and support during delivery.

4. Postpartum Doula

A postpartum doula assists new families in the days and weeks after bringing home a new baby. Their support is invaluable for:

• Newborn care, including feeding and sleep routines.

• Emotional support and reassurance for the parents.

• Household tasks and meal preparation, allowing parents to focus on bonding with their baby

• You can read about the Postpartum Doula service offered by Bump here.

Managing Friends and Family Support

When you are expecting a new baby - or your baby arrives, it's not unusual for friends and family to want to be involved, but many new moms find managing friends and family can be a stressful. Following these simple tips on handling offers of support can make managing family and friends easier both before and after baby arrives.

1. Set Clear Expectations: Let them know what kind of help you need, whether it’s running errands, cooking meals, or simply providing emotional support.
   

2. Schedule Visits: Organize specific times for visits to avoid overwhelming yourself and your baby. If you feel uncomforable doing this, consider asking your partner or a trusted friend to "manage" your diary for you, and agree a set length for visits before people arrive.
   

3. Accept Offers of Help: When someone offers help, accept it! It can make a huge difference in your day-to-day life. Many people can find it difficult to accept help, but remember, it's not someone suggesting that you. are unable to manage - often it's just simply someone wanting to make your life easier.

While many friends and family members are a blessing, some may unintentionally add stress.

Here’s how to handle it without alienating anyone:

1. Communicate Openly:

   Politely but clearly communicate your needs and boundaries. If you feel uncomfortable doing this, give the task to your partner or a trusted friend or relative who can step in as a third party and politely eject overstaying visitors.

   
   

2. Redirect Unwanted Offers Of Help:

   If someone's way of helping isn't useful, redirect their offer of help. For instance, suggest they bring a meal rather than play with the baby at unhelpful times.

   
   

3. Remember, It's Okay To Say No:

   It can feel difficult to set boundaries but it's perfectly acceptable to let people know that their concern is appreciated but you need to focus on your well-being and your baby's needs. Once again, a loved one or friend stepping in may make this easier if you are feeling particarly pressured.

Building Your Ideal Support Team

Choosing the right people for your support team is crucial for a smooth prenatal and postpartum experience. Here's some things to think about when you're working out how to build your team:

1. Identify Your Needs

Consider what types of support you’ll need most. Do you need medical guidance, emotional support, or practical help around the house? Understanding your needs will help you choose the right professionals and supportive friends and family members.

2. Research and Interview Professionals

Take the time to research potential team members who you'll be paying for their support. Look for reviews, ask for recommendations, and interview them to ensure they align with your values and needs. This is especially important for roles like doulas and pediatricians.

3. Prioritize Experience and Compatibility

Choose professionals who have the experience and credentials you trust. It’s equally important that you feel comfortable and compatible with them. Trust your instincts – if someone doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to keep looking.

4. Stay Flexible

Your needs might change as you progress through pregnancy and into the postpartum period. Be open to adjusting your support team accordingly. It’s okay to add new members or change roles as needed.

5. Communicate Clearly

Good communication is key. Ensure everyone on your support team understands your birth plan, your preferences, and any specific concerns you have. This will help them provide the best possible support.

How Robyn and Bump Prenatal and Postpartum Wellness Can Help

At Bump Prenatal and Postpartum Wellness in Calgary, I offer a wide range of prenatal and postnatal wellness services to support you every step of the way, including a Postpartum Doula service in Calgary. My personalized approach ensures you get the care and support you need.

Building a strong prenatal and postpartum support team can make all the difference in your journey into parenthood. For more information on how I can assist you, visit my website at Bump Prenatal and Postpartum Wellness by clicking here.

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If you found this blog helpful, share it with other expecting or new parents who might benefit from these tips. For more advice and support, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at Bump Prenatal and Postparum Wellness in Calgary. Together, we can ensure you and your family have the best possible experience during this special time.