The Family Birth Place

Make an appointment to see your physician

Review your personal medical history and note any missed vaccinations, childhood diseases

Check your diet—eat plenty of fruits and vegetables

Abstain from any alcohol, drugs, or smoking for the duration of your pregnancy

Make your first prenatal appointment as soon as you think you are pregnant

Check with your health plan and doctor for information on parent education classes

Your health care provider may recommend a vitamin supplement

Morning sickness may set in with your first missed period and persist through the first trimester—bland carbohydrates, like bread and crackers, may help nausea

Expect the onset of cravings and mood swings: your body is readjusting its hormone levels

Expect sensitivity to strong odors and gases

• Your baby experiences everything you do
• Strong chemicals, cleaning solutions, and even natural gas can be hazardous to your baby's development

You will notice your clothes are getting tighter

Good news—if morning sickness has not ended, it will soon. In no time you will feel the best you have in months

Investigate classes to help you reduce stress, increase comfort, and prepare yourself and family members for birth

Just as important as eating well throughout your pregnancy, drink plenty of water. Water relieves constipation, and a healthy diet helps your baby increase its body fat during this stage.

Prepared childbirth classes are a must by the seventh month. You due date is only an approximation, and you want to be prepared. Call the Hospital Center's Parent Services department at 202-877-6161 to schedule classes.

Make decisions on circumcision

Make birthing plans. The delivery day can come at any time, and you should have a game plan for the big event.

Look for infant care and support. If you will be returning to work you will want to supervise any caretaker or facility for the first couple of days to ensure everything goes well. If you plan to breastfeed, check with your employer's Human Resources department for a place to pump.

By the eighth month, install a car seat. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely and be sure to keep the car seat out of the front seat and away from all airbags.

As you approach delivery, your baby will move into position in preparation for birth. Lightening, when the baby's head descends into the pelvis, can happen at any time and is not necessarily an indication that labor is about to begin.