Congratulations! You’re pregnant! Now what?

You’ve seen the two bars on the test or been to the doctor and had it confirmed, now what exactly should you expect? Clearly, the answer to this is not just “a baby”.  The months ahead will be filled with fun, change, and many surprises.  You are sure to be bombarded by “expert” advice from everyone from your mother-in-law to your pedicurist.  Just keep a clear head and try to get as informed as possible.

If you don’t have one already, you’ll need to find a good obstetrician or midwife.  Ask friends, hospitals and other doctors for recommendations, but be sure to make your decision based on your goals for your pregnancy and birth, and not just based on a doctor’s celebrity status.  You’ll want to know about your doctor’s view on pain relief, as well as what their Cesarean rate is.

In the meantime, the most important thing will be to take care of yourself!  Eat well, exercise regularly if your ob/gyn has given you the o.k., and try to get a good night’s sleep (much easier if this is baby #1).  And of course, you’ll need to find some outfits that don’t make you look like a sperm whale as you stroll down the Graben.

And don’t forget to celebrate!! This is your time to focus on yourself and your baby in anticipation of one of the greatest miracles there is.  You’ll probably want to forsake that glass of bubbly, but make it a point to get out, see friends and family, and have fun.  The stress-release and relaxation you’ll get from this is bound to be good for you and your baby.