A collection of information that we have learned most mothers want to know about pregnancy and childbirth. A team of childbirth educators, labor and delivery nurses, and lactation consultants have collaborated on creating this [booklet] for expectant mothers. Its purpose is to provide a collection of information that we have learned most mothers want to know about pregnancy and birth. We want you to have this information to help you learn as you go through the experiences of pregnancy and birth. With knowledge, you can be an active partner in your care and make the best decisions for you and your baby.
This information is broken into sections. Each section is based on a prenatal classes that are often taught in medical centers and hospitals. The topics in each section have been gathered from prenatal classes. This collection of materials is not a replacement for parents attending prenatal classes—and if this information conflicts with your class materials, follow what has been given to you in class. This collection of materials is a way for you to see the importance of attending classes and learning about each step in your pregnancy. Prenatal classes go into much greater detail that we do here. Also, prenatal classes allow you to share experiences with other mothers and ask questions that you have about your pregnancy.
The margins contain information to help you choose foods, learn exercises, and understand words used here and by your health care team. We have collected quite a bit of information for you. Some of the information may be of more interest to you as you go through your pregnancy and become more aware of your emotions, questions and concerns.
Our goal — a healthy mother and a healthy baby!
Table of Contents
Early Pregnancy
• First Prenatal Exam and Doctor Visit
• Emotional Changes in Pregnancy
• Promoting Comfort in Pregnancy
• Medicine & Drugs During Pregnancy
• Prenatal Supplements
• Working While Pregnant
Mid Pregnancy
• Great Reasons to Breast Feed Baby
• Warning Signs to Know
Nutrition
* Weight Gain & Diet While Pregnant
• Nutritional Needs During Pregnancy
• Daily Food Guide During Pregnancy
• Nutrition Related issues
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
• Vaginal Birth After Cesarean
• Thinking About Trying VBAC?
• Things We Worry About a Cesarean
• Emotional Affects of Cesarean Birth
Breastfeeding
• Nutritional While Breastfeeding
• How the Breasts Make Milk
• Starting Breastfeeding in Hospital
• Solutions to Breastfeeding Problems
Multiple Pregnancy
Childbirth Preparation
• Suitcase: What to take to Hospital
• Labor Coaching
• How Do I Know If I’m In Labor
• Coping With Labor Using Relaxation
• Taking Medicine During Labor
• Epidural Anesthesia for Labor
• Birth Plan
• Third Trimester Issues
* Choosing Child Care
• Evaluating a Child-Care Center
• The Baby Blues
• Adjusting to Being a New Mom