Are you an expectant or new parent in Tucson? Congratulations! You've come to the right place.
TucsonTopia's NEW PARENT GUIDE is the #1 spot for Tucson dads and moms to find resources for pregnancy, the first year of baby's life, and beyond.
Here you'll find information about obstetricians, midwives, pediatricians, pediatric dentists, hospitals, birth centers, baby registries, and more.
Congratulations! Pregnancy is a miraculous time. You have a new life inside of you who will soon captivate your heart. Babies are truly a wonder.
P.S. If you think you might be pregnant (but are not quite sure), you can purchase easy-to-use pregnancy tests at most local drugstores or dollar stores. Hands of Hope is centrally located and also offers complimentary pregnancy tests. You will also want to schedule an appointment with an obstetrician, gynecologist, or midwife.
Now that you know a new baby is on the way, you are probably filled with mixed emotions: excitement, apprehension, and joy.
Over the next nine months (and beyond), you will want to:
In most cases, it is important and healthy to stay active during pregnancy. Daily walks are a gentle and excellent start. Water aerobics and swimming can also be a good way to stay fit during the warmer months (which are many in Tucson).
If you prefer group classes, call around to nearby gyms, dance studios, or country clubs to see if they offer prenatal exercise classes.
*Be sure to consult with your doctor or midwife for exercise ideas and guidelines.
If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy, we recommend that you set up an appointment at Hands of Hope. The pregnancy medical center offers free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, nurse consultations, and recovery services for pregnancy loss (miscarriage, abortion, ectopic, early infant loss). Hands of Hope serves all ages. All services are completely confidential.
The only places to register locally in Tucson are Target, Walmart, or Bed Bath & Beyond. Babies R Us closed down in 2018, Kids Center is closing in 2019, and buybuy Baby closed in 2023. Read more about Baby Registries in Tucson.
Next, you will need to decide where you will deliver your baby in Tucson.
Your labor & delivery choices are:
Feel free to call to schedule a free tour at any or all of the above birth centers or hospitals so that you can choose the right location for your birth.
Questions you may want to ask include:
The first 1-4 weeks of breastfeeding can range from just fine to uncomfortable to extremely painful. Hang in there! Breastfeeding offers huge benefits to both babies & mothers and becomes a magical, wondrous thing that you will look back on with pride and joy. It may seem messy and exhausting right now, but in a few weeks, you'll be quite the pro! Don't hesitate to seek out local help and support. Breastfeeding can be lonely all on your own.
Most of the local hospitals in Tucson offer complimentary consultations with lactation consultants. Even if you think you don't need help, it's wise to see a lactation consultant before you go home. She can provide tips and guidance. Plus, if an issue arises when you get home, you will have someone to contact!
Lactation consultants can also provide helpful information related to pumping, introducing bottles, milk-sharing, and engorgement.
There are a few lactation consultants in Tucson who offer fee-based consults. They will come to your home or you can travel to their office. If you are struggling with breastfeeding, this can be money very well-spent.
Alternatively, you can ask for help from mothers in your circle. Look for an encouraging mom with three or more children who has breastfeeding experience. Mothers are often very willing to share tips, resources, and product recommendations - not to mention support and friendship.
Another option if you have breastfeeding questions or are on the brink of giving up is to visit a local breastfeeding support group. Although you may be wary of the name, a breastfeeding support group is simply a group of mothers and new babies, led by a certified lactation consultant. Typically the lactation consultant provides advice and encouragement in a very casual environment. There are sometimes even snacks! Most breastfeeding support groups are offered at hospitals or birth centers and are free to attend.
As your little one grows from an infant to a baby to a toddler, you will likely find yourself looking for things to do and places to go with your little one.
Be sure to subscribe to the free TucsonTopia weekly newsletter, which provides a calendar of events for each week plus spotlights on interesting happenings around town. You can also browse our calendar for a more comprehensive look at the upcoming months.
The below links will also likely be of interest:
Congratulations again on your new baby!
We will be updating this page as we receive new information. If you know about other resources or events for New Parents in Tucson, contact us!
