Pregnancy is a time when both parents delve into heavy research – and understandably so. Having a baby is no walk in the park, as there are many things that need to be considered and planned before the baby is born.

That being said, it can easily get overwhelming for would-be parents who simply want to read about too many things in such a short amount of time.

To narrow things down a little bit, here’s a checklist of things that parents need to be aware of in the months and days leading up to the birth of their child, and what they should do.

1. Getting ready for baby’s arrival

Make a list of all the essential items to get and of gifts you have received. Save money by getting second-hand baby items from family and friends, especially a breast pump (which you’ll need to buy new accessories for, however).

Consider shopping online for baby things, although physical shops can sometimes be cheaper. Remember to not overbuy things you may not require – especially clothes since babies grow very fast.

2. Gynaecologist visits

Choose a gynaecologist that you believe you will be comfortable with and prepare a list of questions that you want to ask him or her and address your concerns.

At this point, you have to decide between a normal or caesarean delivery even if there are no complications. Make a decision that’s best for you and don’t be pressured by others.

3. Choosing a hospital

Decide in advance whether to go to a public or private hospital. Consider your hospital options including location, distance, rates, accommodation, hospital rules and other people’s experiences.

You have the option of full-paying patient services at selected public hospitals, but if you would like to go to a private hospital, find out if your gynaecologist is attached to one instead.

4. Preparing for D-Day (Delivery Day)

Consider attending an online childbirth course. The father should be involved, supportive and work together on the birth plan.

Pack a mother and baby bag that’s ready to be picked up whenever it is required. Bring a change of clothes, milk bottles and a baby swaddle.

Be relaxed and don’t panic if the baby comes early.

Bear in mind that due to the pandemic, many hospitals will not allow the father in for the delivery or may even limit the amount of time the father can be in the hospital.

Visitors are also not allowed.

5. Baby registration

Malaysian mothers can register (even while pregnant) for Buku Pink at the nearest clinics for checkups before and after delivery.

No fee is required and parents can still go to both public and private hospitals.

Baby registration after birth needs to be done at the National Registration Department (Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara).

Bring the required documents, which include:

• Completed birth registration form JPN.LM01.
• Original copy of the confirmation of birth form from the hospital or certification of home birth from the midwife/doctor.
• The original and a copy of the prenatal card (maternity examination book such as Buku Merah or a gynaecologist appointment card).
• Original and copies of identity cards, entry permits or passports of the parents and the person reporting the birth.

Registration normally needs to be done 60 days from the birth of the child. If registration is made after 60 days, the birth certificate will carry a statement of late registration (Pendaftaran Lewat Kelahiran).

If you’re only registering after 60 days, you will need to submit an additional late registration document signed by a commissioner of oaths.

During the Movement Control Order (MCO), registration has been extended to 90 days after MCO is lifted.

MyKid (child national identification) is applied together with the birth certification registration but is typically not issued on the spot.

You will be advised on the pickup date, which is usually some time six months later. You will need to bring the collection notice letter, IC of the letter bearer and your child’s original birth certificate.

6. Caring for the baby together

Make decisions about the confinement period in advance, especially about whether it will be carried out at a confinement centre or at home.

It is highly recommended that you book a spot for a confinement centre or engage in a confinement specialist at least six months before the birth of the baby.

Get both parents and any willing and able family members involved in the process.

Do make sure both baby and mother get sufficient rest and nutrients.

In the meantime, it would do parents good to join Facebook support groups such as The Breastfeeding Advocates Network (English) or Happy Breastfeeding Malaysia (mostly BM).

7. Baby medical care

Get medical coverage for the baby anytime within 30 days after birth.

Insurance companies such AIA, Great Eastern and Prudential offer maternity insurance.

For vaccination, decide if you will have vaccinations at a private hospital or public clinics.

Have a thermometer ready at home and keep medical records of your baby including details of his or her growth, immunisations and illnesses.

8. Full moon and beyond

While a social gathering may not be allowed at this time, you can still celebrate your baby’s first month virtually with friends and family.

Set up an education fund for your child, starting with SSPN-i to enjoy tax relief and National Higher Education Fund (PTPTN) benefits, and remember to put any cash gifts into your baby’s education fund.

This article first appeared in MyPF. Follow MyPF to simplify and grow your personal finances on Facebook and Instagram.