Tips to help disabled mothers prepare for parenthood

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Every expecting mother is overjoyed at the prospect of welcoming their child into this world. Every expecting mother is also overwhelmed by the enormity of it all. How will I handle labor? How will I manage with less sleep? What if I haven’t done enough to prepare? Your mind is on overload playing out every possible scenario, and if you’re a disabled mom, all of those emotions can be magnified as you figure out how you’ll take care of your new bundle of joy and continue to take care of your own needs.
 
Stop for a moment, breathe and remember these are all normal feelings and the best thing you can do now is to focus on getting yourself and your home ready for this special gift.
 
Preparing your home
 
One of the most positive ways you can spend time as you’re waiting for your baby is by getting your home ready. Here are some important things to consider.

1. Is my home safe? Once your infant begins to crawl, your home can be a minefield of potential risks. Large bookcases, television stands, and other tippy furniture will need to be secured to the wall. Kitchen cabinets will need locking systems to keep your child away from chemicals or sharp objects. Sharp corners will need covered. Use a thorough checklist and get started with making the necessary modifications.
2. Is my home clean? Your home is chock-full of germy areas and now is a good time to get them cleaned up. Give the obvious doorknobs and light switches a good wipe down. But remember germs can hide in lots of unsuspecting places too, like stove knobs, sponges, and kitchen sinks. Once you’re tackled the germs, work on the clutter. Look for things on surfaces that can be stored away. Even the most organized spaces can become quickly cluttered once baby arrives, so take time now to minimize.
3. Are you ready for guests? Once your baby arrives, chances are you’ll also have some visiting family, so prep the guest room now.

 
Importance of self-care
 
Stress is a normal part of pregnancy, but if your tension outweighs the joy that comes with expecting a new baby, it’s time to focus on some quality self-care. According to Susan Andrews, PhD, a clinical neuropsychologist and author of the book Stress Solutions for Pregnant Moms: How Breaking Free From Stress Can Boost Your Baby’s Potential, constant stress that doesn’t let up can be very damaging, as it creates an inflammatory response that leads to poor pregnancy health and complications. If you’re feeling too much stress start with one of the following:

1. Yoga or meditation: Both are scientifically proven to boost your mood.
2. Talk to a counselor or friend: Sometimes a good chat can do wonders for improving your outlook on things.
3. Eat healthy: Certain foods can reduce stress by lowering the levels of hormones that trigger it.
4. Exercise: When your body releases endorphins from exercise you’ll be dealing with your stress better.

 
Helpful resources
 
Products Designed for Disabled Parents - Depending on your specific disability you may find great help with some amazing products available to assist. For example, if you’re in a wheelchair, you can purchase a side-opening crib that will make it easier to access your infant. Or if you have limited motor skills in your hands, you can find items including a velcro baby bib to avoid the difficult snap.
 
Online Support from Other Disabled Parents - There will be times both in the planning stages and after you’ve brought your baby home that you’ll face a challenge  you’re not sure how to manage. The Disabled Parenting Project provides a great online resource where you can research ideas and products as well as reach out to other parents with similar disabilities to share solutions and advice.
 
Bringing home your baby will be the most joyous day of your life. Take time now to prepare so you can enjoy every single moment of it. The days ahead will be filled with happiness as you delightfully document every small milestone. They’ll also be filled with exhaustion as you fall into bed at night from a full day’s care. Embrace it all. 

Thank you for guest post contributed by Ashley Taylor from DisabledParents.org.