As someone who has worked in maternal health, the hospital setting, and WIC, I have been asked what is the best advice I could give to moms who are going in to labor.  I tell them: "don't tell anyone you are going to the hospital or that you are having your baby".  I get a startled reaction, but after a minute or so pause, they get it. If you don't tell anyone, nobody comes to visit.  Of course, dad or the main support person should know.  I discuss the fact that often mom and baby are only in the hospital for 24-48 hours.  Enjoy that time to bond and nurse - just you and the baby.  Everybody else can wait. 

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