A Gentle Guide for Expecting Mothers: How to Prepare for Birth and the First Days with Your Newborn

A newborn peacefully sleeps, wrapped in a cozy purple blanket, nestled in a wicker basket surrounded by sprigs of lavender and delicate roses for a serene and charming portrait.

Pregnancy is a beautiful mix of excitement, anticipation, and sometimes uncertainty. As your due date approaches, it’s completely natural to wonder how to prepare, emotionally and practically, for the day you meet your baby.

This guide is written to gently support expecting mothers and help you feel calmer, more prepared, and confident as you step into motherhood.

Preparing Emotionally for Birth

One of the most important things to remember is this: there is no “perfect” birth. Every labour and delivery experience is unique, and flexibility is key.

Whether you have a detailed birth plan or prefer to go with the flow, trust your body and allow yourself to feel every emotion that comes your way. Feeling nervous, emotional, or overwhelmed is normal, and you are not alone.

What to Prepare Before Your Due Date

A few weeks before your due date, it’s helpful to have a hospital bag ready. Knowing it’s packed can give you peace of mind and one less thing to think about.

For mum:

• Comfortable clothing

• Personal toiletries

• Slippers and socks

• Phone charger

• Important documents

• Water bottle and light snacks (if allowed)

For baby:

• Soft newborn outfits

• Nappies

• A cosy blanket

• An outfit for going home

Try not to overpack, simplicity is your best friend during this time.

What to Expect on Birth Day

Birth rarely follows a script. It may be quicker or longer than expected, calmer or more intense, and that’s okay. Focus on breathing, staying present, and letting your support team guide you.

Most importantly, remind yourself that you are doing something incredibly powerful.

The First Days at Home with Your Newborn

Those first days after birth are tender, emotional, and often exhausting. Your home doesn’t need to be perfect. You don’t need to have everything figured out.

Your only real priority is bonding with your baby, resting when possible, and allowing yourself time to adjust. Everything else can wait.

Preserving These Fleeting Moments at Home

The newborn stage passes incredibly quickly. Many parents later say those first days feel like a blur, filled with love, tiredness, and moments they wish they could relive.

That’s why I offer in-home newborn photography sessions across West London, allowing you to stay in the comfort of your own home while your baby is photographed safely and gently.

There’s no need to travel to a studio or prepare anything special. I bring everything needed and work at your baby’s pace, creating natural, timeless images that reflect real moments in your own space.

A Final Word for Expecting Mothers

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be present, loving, and kind to yourself.

The rest will unfold naturally 🤍

If you’re expecting and would like to book a newborn photo session at home in West London, I’d love to hear from you.

👉 Get in touch here: https://www.irinellivita.com/contact👉 View my newborn photography portfolio: https://www.irinellivita.com