According to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, the sweltering summer months host the highest birthrates, with August taking the lead for largest number of births.

While we can only speculate about why so many babies are born this time of year (insert cheeky remarks about too many holiday drinks), we recognize this is one of the most financially stressful times for expectant parents.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, only 12 percent of non-government workers have access to paid parental leave — and many of those only receive partial pay — leaving a gaping hole in their finances. So what can you do now to ensure that taking time off leave doesn’t leave you scraping by later? Here are seven tips to consider:

1. Find out what your company offers. 

Most companies with over 50 employees must comply with the Family Medical Leave Act, which provides 12 weeks of unpaid leave to new parents while protecting their position. Some employers may provide paid leave during those three months, but it could be just a portion of your regular salary. Either way, consult with your Human Resources department and find out what your options are. There may be additional benefits you can tap into.

If your company only offers unpaid leave or a portion of your salary, some suggest “stock piling” paid time off (PTO), sick leave or looking into short term disability coverage options, which can provide about six to eight weeks of pay in connection to childbirth.

2. Track your expenses.

If you don’t track where your money goes, you’ll never know where you can cut back. Understanding where you spend money each month can help you determine if you should freeze your gym membership or nix those Starbucks visits.

3. Curb splurging.

Do you subscribe to four different streaming services? Enjoy going out every Friday and Saturday night? If so, you might want to consider paring those luxuries down. In fact, these 10 ways to reach $20K provide great suggestions on how to easily save and earn without sacrificing lifestyle.

4. Determine what your new insurance costs will be.

Once you add another family member to your insurance policy, your deductible and monthly costs will also increase. If you have a high deductible for health insurance, consider putting more away in a Health Savings Account (HSA) to help cover unexpected doctor visits.

5. Craft a baby-friendly budget.

You’re used to saving for just yourself and maybe your partner. But after your baby arrives, your expenses will change. You’ll not only need to purchase baby necessities, such as diapers or formula, but will also need to factor in your new monthly insurance premiums and childcare.

Bonus tip: borrow, borrow, borrow. Hand me downs like children’s clothes, travel bassinets, pack and plays, etc. are great items to borrow, since they can be pricey and only last only a limited amount of time.

6. Play house.

After you know what your post-baby budget will look like – let’s say it’ll go from $2,200 in monthly expenses to $3,200 (with baby expenses) – put that $1,000 difference into your savings. It’ll get you used to paying that amount regularly and help you save a nice chunk of change each month in preparation for maternity leave.

7. Start a savings account/rainy day fund.

With any baby or child, there will likely be unexpected expenses, whether it’s hospital bills, doctor visits or other issues you didn’t anticipate. Most experts suggest having three to six months of living expenses saved up prior to your child’s arrival. Even setting aside $150 per paycheck, can build up to be a sizable nest egg and allow you to save for their future.