Your initial influence

You might think it’s too early to start planning for the big day, but it’s never too early to starting thinking about what kind of birthing experience will be the ideal one for you. 

Packing for the hospital is not quite as simple as packing for a weekend trip since you leave home pregnant, and return with an extra bundle of joy. Your baby will need some amenities and don’t forget your labour coach either. Here's what to pack for the hospital when having a baby.

Here’s an outline that starts with your third trimester, and takes you right through to your upcoming labour.

There are so many things to do before bringing baby home from the hospital. One thing is for certain, if you have a car, you’ll need a properly-installed rear-facing infant car seat to bring your baby home safely.

Doctor visits during pregnancy are important to ensure that your baby’s growth and development is progressing well. Throughout your second trimester, you'll be visiting your doctor about once a month provided everything is progressing normally. Your doctor will take your blood pressure and monitor other health indicators at each visit. Keep reading and learn more about what to expect during your second trimester.

How soon can you influence your baby’s health? You can help even before you are pregnant by taking a prenatal multivitamin containing folic acid.

You want to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. You know it has benefits for both you and the baby growing in your belly. You likely wonder which nutrients are critical for the healthy growth and development of your baby, so how can you pick out which foods to eat during pregnancy?

Even before you conceive, every bite counts. Wait, that’s a lot to consider, right? Don’t worry, this healthy eating breakdown serves up diet information that will matter to you.

Hooray for exercise! That’s right, it’s not off limits just because you’re pregnant, you just have to be very careful (i.e. talk to your doctor).