A Doctor Mom’s Guide to Preparing for Your Newborn

Most people think that preparing for a newborn means buying all the right stuff. The best stroller. The cutest onesies. The bassinet that folds into a backpack and plays Mozart. But here’s the truth: real newborn prep isn’t about the registry.

As a pediatrician and a mom, I’ve seen and felt the overwhelm that comes with trying to feel "ready." What really matters? Feeling peaceful, supported, and equipped for your journey. In this guide, I want to reframe preparation for you—in a way that centers your baby, your body, and your heart.

Part 1: Baby-Centered Prep

Let’s start with what your baby actually needs: warmth, nourishment, and connection. That’s it. The rest? Helpful, yes. Essential? Not really.

Your baby doesn’t care about brand names. He cares about being held, fed, changed, and loved. So before you spiral into comparison mode or give in to influencer pressure, here’s a simplified essentials checklist:

• Somewhere safe to sleep (crib, bassinet, or bedside sleeper)

• A car seat that fits your car (get it checked for installation!)

• Diapers and wipes

• A few onesies and sleepers

• Swaddles or baby blankets

• A simple feeding setup (bottles and formula, or a nursing pillow and nipple balm)

That’s it. Truly.

Part 2: Mama-Centered Prep

Now let’s talk about the real VIP: you. Your recovery, your nourishment, your mental health—all of it matters deeply.

Postpartum care musts:

• A postpartum plan. Who will bring meals? Who can hold the baby or otherwise man your ship while you shower or take a short walk?

• Snacks and hydration in every room. You’ll need fuel, and you won’t want to search far and wide.

• Pads, peri bottle, stool softeners, and acetaminophen.

Mental health + self-compassion: You will forget things. You will cry over small stuff. You will Google something weird. It’s okay. This season is intense and temporary. Give yourself permission to not be all things to all people. Your only job is to care for yourself and your baby.

Ask for help early. Let go of guilt. Your healing matters.

Part 3: Soul-Centered Prep

This part is often overlooked—but in my experience, it’s what helps the most.

Try writing out a couple of my favorite scriptures for peace:

• Isaiah 26:3 (NLT) You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
• Philippians 4:6–7 (NLT) Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

Surrendering expectations: You might have a birth plan. You might have a vision. But sometimes, the story shifts. Prepare your heart for flexibility. Let peace—not pressure—lead the way.

Praying over your baby: One of the most grounding things you can do is to speak peace over your baby now. Pray for her safety, for your connection, and for your own heart to be softened and strengthened. God is present in every delivery room.

Final Thoughts: You’re More Ready Than You Think

Preparation isn’t about being perfect. It’s about posturing your heart, your home, and your body in a way that makes space for grace.

You don’t need to have all the answers. You need support, peace, and a little room to learn as you go.

If you want more guidance, check out my Newborn Success Podclass—bite-sized audio coaching from me, a pediatrician-mama, made just for the early days. Plus, grab your free Newborn Prep Checklist HERE!

You are doing better than you think. And you are not alone.