Asking for help is something a lot of new moms have trouble with, but it makes sense to make plans now for assistance after the baby comes. There are lots of great options available to new moms these days.

Doula

Doulas don't just provide support and assistance during labor and delivery. Postpartum doulas now work for a new mother for weeks and months after birth. These doulas assist with breastfeeding and infant care, as well as episiotomy or C-section incision care. In addition to all of this, they cook, clean, run errands, and more. If your doctor writes a prescription for a postpartum doula, you may be able to get coverage under your health insurance plan.

Baby Nurse

If you would like to hire a nurse who will help with baby care and offer you some relief at night, ask your pediatrician for a recommendation. You can also contact local nanny agencies and ask about specialized baby nurses. Baby nurses will help you with daily baby care and breastfeeding, and they watch the baby during the day or at night so you can sleep or do other things. Note that there are different types of nurses. A registered nurse (RN) will be the most expensive, but if you have a child with special needs this may be necessary. A licensed practical nurse (LPN) does not have the same kind of specialized training as an RN but is well trained to help you with daily care.

Child Care

It's not too soon to begin thinking about child care. Chapter 18 discusses the various options available to you. During your pregnancy you can evaluate day cares for your return to work and get on the waiting list if there is one at the facility you select. Most child-care centers will not take infants younger than six weeks. In addition to making these long-term child-care plans, you should identify friends or relatives who will come over to help so you can sleep or rest in the first months or so that you can have a well-earned parents' night out.