A pregnancy lasts for about 40 weeks, and during that time, women will dream about the day that they meet their baby. They will imagine what their little one will look like, and look forward to the moment where they instantly bond with their newborn child. However, High Desert women do not have to wait until they deliver their baby in order to bond with their bundle of joy. At Reza Ahmadinia OBGYN, we remind our Apple Valley patients that they are connected to their developing baby constantly, and there are many bonding activities that they can enjoy right now.
How Can I Bond with My Baby in the Womb?
Sit quietly and massage your belly. The gentle movements will soothe and relax your baby, and allow your baby to connect with you on a physical level. This also can help relax you. Pregnancy can be a stressful time, and taking time to bond with the baby through massage can help alleviate any concerns you might have.
Read your baby a book, or talk to your baby. You can read a storybook that you are saving for the baby’s birth, or you can simply tell your baby about your day. Describe your home to your baby, or tell the baby about its new nursery. This helps your baby connect with your voice, and allows you to feel more in sync with your growing child.
Enroll in prenatal yoga classes, or practice prenatal yoga in your own home. Prenatal yoga poses are designed specifically for expectant mothers. These poses help you breathe better and prepare for delivery, but they also are designed to help you connect with your baby. The exercise is good for your health, and also beneficial for your baby.
Get your partner involved in the bonding process. Ask the baby’s father to read to the baby at night, or sing a favorite lullaby to your belly. Guide your baby’s father around your belly, and direct him to the baby’s movement. This is an important process for the other parent as well, who may feel a little disconnected throughout the pregnancy.
Let your baby know you can feel it kicking. When you start to feel those little feet moving around inside of you, rub the area where you feel it or gently push back. This helps you physically connect with your baby, and also allows your baby to know that you are feeling its movements. This is a unique way of communicating with your baby that can help you bond.
For more information about bonding with your baby throughout pregnancy, talk with Dr. Ahmadinia at your next prenatal care appointment. Before you know it, your due date will be approaching, and you’ll be snuggling your baby in your arms.
