Find a doctor you trust

First things first, find an obstetrician (OB/GYN) you trust and schedule an appointment. An obstetrician is a doctor that specializes in pregnancy, childbirth and the woman’s reproductive system, and as with any career, not all doctors are made the same.

Find a doctor you respect and have a rapport with because knowing you are in good hands will ease your worries. Your doctor can offer nutrition advice, set up a physical to check your blood pressure, BMI (body mass index), do blood tests, and schedule an ultrasound. They will also be able to answer important questions about your experience such as what symptoms to expect when you are going into labour (ie. contractions).

Make a birth plan

Making a birth plan with your doctor and your partner will help you visualize a successful childbirth experience. This is a great opportunity to decide on where you want to give birth, who you want in the room with you and if you want to use pain relief options. You can even plan a ‘birth-moment’ song for your baby if you want! Having a plan can help you feel confident, excited and encourage you to better participate in the birth; which has shown to lead to more positive outcomes.

Eat a balanced diet

Eating enough to support your pregnancy while maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for you and your baby. Ask your doctor to give you the ideal weight gain for your pregnancy, as they will evaluate this on your current weight, the baby and your overall health. Enjoy a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, dairy products, cooked lean meats, healthy fats and fish.

Stay active

A healthy amount of low impact exercise is recommended during pregnancy. Going for a daily walks, swimming or doing pregnancy yoga can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce back pain, ease constipation and strengthen your body to prepare for childbirth.

Reach out for support

Talk to the women in your life that have gone through childbirth before, you can reach out to your mother, grandmother, aunt or friend. Everyone's labour story is different but talking to women who have gone through childbirth already will provide emotional support and an organic knowledge base. If you're having a hard time finding someone to talk to, sign up to 'new mom’ classes, like birthing or prenatal yoga. You’ll meet women in the same phase of life in no time!

Rest and Relax

Engage in habits that help you relax on a regular basis. Feeling calm during pregnancy and childbirth can reduce labor pain and promote a better postpartum adjustment. Also, be sure to get enough sleep every night - quality sleep can reduce stress, giving your body and mind time to heal.