1. My gynae advised to use the Epino device that helps reduce perineal tearing and damage. I didn't manage to even start on this because Ellery came out at 37.5 weeks and the device leaflet stated to start the device only at 38 weeks. I have many friends who started at 37 weeks without issues. Those who used Epino also reported no or minor tearing! Wished I had a chance to use it because I tore quite a bit.
2. Watch videos on how to breathe and what happens in labour (I don’t suggest watching those gory ones as they will scare you! I recommend the videos below)
On how to breathe during labour:
https://youtu.be/eK9BrVX8RhM
On what happens to baby during labour:
https://youtu.be/iaVuIaVpx5Q
On how to know if you’re in labour:
https://youtu.be/kp6jWTjEqjQ
3. Buy all the baby essentials and get nursery ready. Early labour can happen as early as 1 month before EDD so I would suggest buying everything, organising and cleaning the room 1.5-2 months before EDD. If you want a super deep cleaning of your curtains, sofa, bed, baby cot etc, I used EpiClean. I do this every year because I'm pretty sensitive to dust mites and allergens, but before baby's arrival is a good idea too!
4. Get your hospital bag ready!
5. If you plan on encapsulating your placenta, contact them early and pay the deposit. I didn’t pay my deposit because I kept thinking I had time but went into labour earlier than expected so I had to pay extra
I went with Heavenly Health Store. Is consuming your own placenta useful? I don't know to be honest. I only consumed it when I gave birth to Ellery. Apparently consuming your own placenta helps with breast milk production, gives you glowing skin, and helps with post-partum emotions. With Ellery, I did have more breast milk, but also because I was working a lot harder with the pumping. For glowing skin and post-partum emotions, I actually had better skin and much better mood when I gave birth to Aera, so who knows? I think if it makes you feel psychologically better, then do it.
6. If you plan to do cord blood banking, please do your in-depth research and go with the company you are most comfortable with!
7. Open your CDA account https://www.babybonus.msf.gov.sg
8. Decide on your baby's name as you will need to register the name within 1 month of baby's birth. We took forever to decide on Aera's name and registered really late. I feel if possible, it will be best to firm up on the name before baby arrives. When you give birth you have so many emotions and tons to do, thinking of which name suits your baby is going to be the last thing on your mind hahah.
9. Remind your confinement nanny if you are getting one that you are on your last few weeks just in case she forgets.
10. Schedule a maternity shoot at about week 33-36, when your bump is big enough! Not a must but definitely nice to do this for memory.