New Parent Guide

New Parent Guide Tucson

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.

I'M PREGNANT! NOW WHAT?

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. 

PRENATAL FITNESS/EXERCISE IN TUCSON

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:

  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Eat a diet rich in fruits & vegetables.
  • Take regular walks.

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. 

UNPLANNED PREGNANCY IN TUCSON

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. 

BABY REGISTRIES IN TUCSON

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.

LABOR & DELIVERY IN TUCSON

Next, you will need to decide where you will deliver your baby in Tucson.

Your labor & delivery choices are:

  • Babymoon Inn of Tucson: personalized midwifery care in a freestanding birth center.
  • In-Hospital Birthing Center: The Midwifery Center at TMC, formerly El Rio Birth Center, is an accredited in-hospital birthing unit. The center provides a family-centered, home-like experience for women who are at low risk and who want to have a natural, unmedicated birth. 
  • Hospital: There are four hospitals with Labor & Delivery units in Tucson: Tucson Medical Center, Carondelet St. Joseph's Hospital, Banner University Medical Center, and Northwest Medical Center. The hospital where you deliver may be dictated by where your OB/midwife is associated.
  • At Home: some people opt to have their babies at home under the care of a midwife or team of midwives.

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:

  1. What labor aids do you offer? Rocking chairs, labor balls, warm showers/baths, etc.
  2. Will I be able to move around freely during labor (without heart rate monitors, IVs, etc)?
  3. Is there somewhere for my husband to sleep/stay?
  4. What is your induction rate?
  5. What is your cesarean rate?
  6. Do mothers and babies stay together after delivery?
  7. Do you offer complimentary lactation services (consultants, support groups, etc)?
  8. Are lactation consultants available around the clock?
  9. What amenities do you offer to new parents after delivery (celebratory meal, newborn & mom photo, etc)?
  10. How soon will I be able to return home after delivery?

BREASTFEEDING IN TUCSON

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.   

LACTATION CONSULTANTS IN TUCSON

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. 

BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUPS IN TUCSON

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. 

BABIES & TODDLERS IN TUCSON

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!

TucsonTopia contains both paid and non-paid mentions of businesses and organizations in and around Tucson, Arizona. Any reference made here to local businesses, services, classes, etc. is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. We encourage you to do your own research before participating in an event or engaging with a local business or organization. The intent of TucsonTopia is to provide ideas for family-friendly activities, events, and resources. Participants assume all risks for any activities they engage in. TucsonTopia is not responsible for any injuries or problems that may arise from partaking in any of these events and activities.
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