Welcoming your baby during COVID-19

Juno Diagnostics | April 2022

In pre-pandemic times, bringing your new baby home meant a barrage of visits from friends and family excited to meet your little one. Now, things might look a little different. However, parenting a newborn during COVID-19 doesn’t mean you have to go without the support and community of your loved ones. Even as you're taking all the necessary precautions, you can still seek assistance from family and friends. In exchange, your loved ones may offer you the support you need while also ensuring that you and your family are safe from infection.

Here are some helpful tips on how to navigate bringing home your baby during the COVID-19 era.

Plan and Prepare

Before your delivery, talk to your family and friends about your COVD-19 comfort level. Who will be welcome for in-person visits? Will you expect visitors to wear masks or be vaccinated? Setting these boundaries ahead of time can help you show well-meaning loved ones the best way to support you.

Welcome your baby virtually or from a safe distance

Schedule virtual visits so you can show off your bundle of joy without having to host a crowd of people in your home. Luckily, we are living in a time full of resources. Using Zoom, FaceTime, or even social media platforms is a great way to share the news. You can also arrange an outdoor meet and greet with the family, practicing safe distancing.

Take advantage of grocery delivery or pick up services

Say YES to grocery and meal deliveries. Thanks to social distancing recommendations, it’s easier than ever to have the things you need delivered right to your door. It can be exhausting bringing home a new baby, and the last place you want to go is to a crowded place with your newborn. Now, you can actually (try to) nap while your baby’s napping, instead of using that time to dash to the store.

Bonding time

Use your time at home to bond with your new baby. Any parent will tell you — the days are long, but the years are short. If you choose to limit your visitors, take advantage of the quiet time and focus on enjoying the little moments with your partner and your new baby. The silver lining to COVID-19 is that you have the ability to stay at home with your newborn.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Your family and friends may be wondering about the best way to support you and your growing family while respecting your COVID-19 precautions. Let your loved ones know what you need, whether it’s help with meals, errands, or just some adult conversation. Be upfront with your comfort level, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

Preparing for a newborn for many expectant parents entails making decisions that might be made easier when you know whether you're expecting a boy or a girl. The sex of your baby may influence how you design the nursery, shop for baby clothes, and tell your other children about the impending arrival of a sibling. COVID-19 has brought on new challenges for expecting moms, but it has opened up new opportunities. Make sure to create your plan to welcome your baby home.

With the Juno Early Gender Test, you can skip the waiting game and go right to the exciting part: planning for your baby's arrival!

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