Expectant mothers often feel anxious when their due date falls during the Tet holiday. Doctor Nguyen Hoang Tung, a Specialist Level II from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Center at Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi, offers crucial advice for these mothers.

**Plan the delivery**

During holidays, hospitals typically operate with on-call staff, and personnel rotations may occur. Expectant mothers should proactively discuss their preferred birth plan with their doctor, including anticipated delivery methods and potential risks. It is also advisable to inquire about the doctor's on-call schedule at the chosen hospital for optimal preparation. Clearly defining the estimated hospital admission time and transportation arrangements for the holiday period is essential.

**Limit long-distance travel**

Traveling long distances in late pregnancy carries risks of unexpected labor, fatigue, and increased complications. Expectant mothers should carefully consider their travel plans and choose a delivery location close to their residence. It is crucial to discuss safe and timely travel arrangements with a doctor in case labor begins.

**Maintain contact with your doctor and support network**

Expectant mothers due during Tet must maintain close contact with their doctor. The doctor can provide timely advice upon the appearance of labor signs, abdominal pain, bleeding, ruptured membranes, or unusual fetal movements, helping to determine the appropriate time for hospital admission.

**Pay attention to diet**

The Tet holiday diet often features high levels of protein, fat, salt, and sugar, which can lead to digestive problems, rapid weight gain, and edema. Consuming many processed foods or improperly stored items during Tet can also increase the risk of food poisoning for expectant mothers. A balanced, scientific diet that ensures food hygiene and safety helps mothers maintain stable health.

Expectant mothers need to pay attention to a complete, scientific diet even during Tet. Photo: Minh Phuong

**Prepare mentally and pack your hospital bag**

Changes in daily routine or anxieties about hospital admission and travel for childbirth can cause stress. A stable mindset helps expectant mothers cooperate effectively with doctors, reducing the risk of prolonged labor or contraction irregularities. Expectant mothers due around Tet should prepare a complete hospital bag in advance to avoid any last-minute confusion during the holidays. The bag should contain essential documents such as prenatal records, health insurance cards, identification, and items for the mother (postpartum clothing, maternity pads, nursing bras), as well as items for the baby (newborn clothes, a hat, mittens and booties, diapers). Expectant mothers may also include supportive items like a phone charger and a personal water bottle.

Doctor Tung advises expectant mothers to recognize early signs of impending labor for timely hospital admission. Common indicators include: progressively increasing abdominal pain in frequency and intensity that does not subside with rest, vaginal bleeding (pink or red mucus discharge), continuous rupture or leakage of amniotic fluid, decreased fetal movement, and a heavy sensation in the lower abdomen accompanied by back pain radiating to the front. Should one or more of these signs appear, expectant mothers should contact their doctor immediately.

Hang Tran